Delivering an Executive Search to Drive Strategic Growth and Research Impact for a Public University in Queensland
Future Leadership™ was engaged by a public university in Queensland to appoint a Dean for the College of Healthcare Sciences. The role was critical to advancing the strategic growth, sustainability and success of a multi-campus college, with a strong focus on rural and remote health outcomes.
The Brief
Future Leadership™ was engaged by a public university in Queensland to appoint a Dean for the College of Healthcare Sciences. The appointment was pivotal to the university’s broader strategic goals, including expanding its academic portfolio, enhancing research capability, and improving access to high-quality healthcare in rural and remote communities.
The Dean would be responsible for leading the College through innovative strategy, resource management, and high-quality learning and research delivery, while fostering a culture that supports staff, students and stakeholders.
The Process
Future Leadership™ undertook a comprehensive search process tailored to the university’s strategic priorities.
Key steps included:
Briefing and Strategy Development: Engaged with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academy) and other senior stakeholders to understand the leadership needs and strategic direction of the College.
Targeted Candidate Search: Conducted extensive international mapping and outreach to over 200 senior leaders in healthcare and nursing, seeking expressions of interest and referrals.
Candidate Assessment: Developed a comprehensive advertising campaign and interactive application portal. Shortlisted four candidates for interview.
Final Evaluation: Conducted second-round interviews and detailed referencing, leading to the appointment of the successful candidate.
Candidate Assessment: Developed a comprehensive advertising campaign and interactive application portal. Shortlisted four candidates for interview.
Final Evaluation: Conducted second-round interviews and detailed referencing, leading to the appointment of the successful candidate.
The Outcome
The search resulted in the appointment of a stellar candidate, an experienced nurse educator with leadership experience in both academic and hospital settings. The preferred candidate joined from Central Queensland University, where she held senior roles including Deputy Dean Nursing and Head of College.
Her research interests in rural and remote health, combined with a strong track record in securing competitive grant funding from NHMRC and Queensland Health, aligned closely with the university’s strategic goals. She also served as Director of Nursing, Rural and Remote Relief at Birdsville Primary Health Care, Central West Hospital and Health Service
