Governance Officer & Company Secretary

• Full Time (35h), Permanent Position - Immediate Start!
• Own the governance function end‑to‑end
• Be the trusted governance adviser at the top table

About The Role

We’re seeking an experienced Governance Officer & Company Secretary to take ownership of the governance function at USU and act as a trusted adviser to the CEO, Board and Committees. This is a standalone, senior role offering high autonomy, direct Board exposure, and the opportunity to shape governance frameworks across a complex, purpose-driven organisation.

Who We Are

The USU is Australia’s largest student-led organisation, enhancing the student experience at the University of Sydney. As a not-for-profit, we support over 200 clubs, events, and leadership opportunities. We are committed to fostering inclusivity, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring students thrive both on and off campus.

What You Will Do

• Provide expert advice to the CEO, Board and Committees
• Prepare high-quality governance papers, policies and briefings
• Plan and deliver Board and Committee meetings end-to-end
• Maintain governance, risk, policy and contract registers
• Lead governance improvements and document management practices
• Deliver annual Board and Executive elections
• Partner closely with the CEO and senior stakeholders
• Act as the central governance contact across the organisation

Essential Criteria

• 5+ years of experience in a senior governance and/or administrative role, and/or prior experience in an EA, legal/company secretary, or similar position.
• Relevant qualifications, including AICD, or other post graduate governance credentials
• Experience acting as (or equivalent to) a Company Secretary
• Highly literate with excellent grammar, spelling, and attention to detail
• Strong knowledge of governance frameworks and regulatory environments
• Sound judgement, discretion, and ability to manage sensitive matters
• Confidence engaging with Boards and senior stakeholders

HOURS OF WORK

Full-time, 35 hours per week.

SALARY

Please reach out to ***email_hidden*** for more information.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE

Sunday, 14 June 2026, 11:59 PM

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is highly encouraged to ensure timely consideration.

Benefits

• Meal card for food and beverage - $15 per day
• 17.5% annual leave loading
• Generous paid leave entitlements including 8 days of extra paid leave per year
• Work from home, 1 day per week
• Commitment to ongoing learning & development

How To Apply

You must have the right to live and work in Australia to apply for this job.

• Please read the position description here before applying.
• Scroll down and complete our online application form below.
• Attach a Cover Letter (MS Word or PDF format only) addressing the selection criteria, detailing why you wish to apply for this position.
• Attach your resume (MS Word or PDF format only).

PLEASE NOTE: Once you have commenced your application you cannot save and continue at a later stage.

About The Usu

Founded in 1874, the USU (University of Sydney Union) is proudly Australia’s oldest and largest not-for-profit student organisation, dedicated to providing students with the best possible university experience.

Led by a student board elected by our members, the USU provides fun things on campus, such as festivals, events and parties. We also run an amazing array of programs, including an active volunteering program and a Language Exchange Program, to name a few. In addition, we support over 200 Clubs and Societies as well as operate bars, food and retail outlets across campus, providing great coffee, fresh affordable food, graduation gown hire and official USYD merchandise.

We are committed to promoting a workplace of equal opportunities. We promote healthy living and aims to protect the health and safety of staff, members and visitors to the University by providing a Smoke-Free Workplace. We do not accept unsolicited agency applications.

Due to the volume of applications received, shortlisted applicants will be contacted within approximately 4 weeks of the role’s closing date (or 4 weeks from the date of application if there is no specified closing date).