Head of Operations

MindSpot, Macquarie University Health
Full time, fixed term contract until 30 June 2028 in line with current funding, with the possibility of extension
salary plus 12% superannuation and salary packaging (including venue hire, meals, entertainment and novated leasing)
Flexible hybrid role, based at Macquarie University, Wallamattagal Campus, North Ryde
Grow with us: work closely with the Executive Director to lead operations in an integrated clinical service, education and research environment, with professional development and career progression actively supported
Lead the operations of one of Australia's most trusted digital mental health services.
MindSpot is an internationally recognised digital mental health service and research program, and part of Macquarie University Health. Each year, MindSpot helps more than 30,000 Australians access free, evidence-based psychological assessment and treatment by phone and online — and its clinical research arm, the eCentreClinic, designs and evaluates the next generation of digital treatments that feed straight back into frontline care.
We are looking for a Head of Operations to lead the systems, processes, resources and infrastructure that keep MindSpot running well, so our clinicians can focus on the people they support. Reporting to the Executive Director, MindSpot & Mental Health Services, you will own day-to-day operational performance across business processes, systems, procurement, grants, contracts and budgets - keeping a lean, high-performing service steady while supporting its growth.
This is one of two newly created leadership roles in the MindSpot team, offering a unique opportunity to help shape and build our future.
The role suits an operations leader who has built solid foundations and is ready for broader scope. You will work closely with the Executive Director as part of the senior team, lead two direct reports, and have real scope to shape how things are done. You will build working relationships across Macquarie University and MQ Health to support MindSpot’s operational needs and strengthen collaboration across education, research and clinical services - joining a dedicated team whose work improves access to quality mental health care for people right across Australia.
About the Role
Reporting to the Executive Director, MindSpot & Mental Health Services, you will:
Develop and maintain MindSpot's operating model, including business processes, systems and operating practices
Provide operational oversight across MindSpot, making sure business requirements, priorities and day-to-day operations are well managed, and troubleshooting issues as they arise
Oversee rostering, service capacity and workforce planning
Oversee operational requirements relating to technology, software, procurement, property, facilities and workplace infrastructure
Establish and monitor operational KPIs and performance frameworks
Enable effective implementation of WHS, risk, compliance and governance requirements, including participation in relevant MQ Health WHS committees
Oversee MindSpot's grants, funding agreements and budgets — working with the MQ Health Finance Director to monitor expenditure, funding obligations and reporting, and manage financial processes
Identify and resolve operational constraints, coordinate operational change, and ready the service for new partnerships and growth opportunities
Build effective working relationships across Macquarie University and MQ Health to strengthen delivery and support integration across education, research and clinical services
About Us
MindSpot's vision is to build an emotionally resilient world by using technology to improve access to, and quality of, mental health care. MindSpot comprises a research clinic (eCentreClinic), a national online mental health service (MindSpot Clinic) and a state-based virtual mental health service (MindSpot GP), with its clinical research arm developing and evaluating innovative digital treatments that inform frontline clinical services. Visit our website: https://www.mindspot.org.au/about-mindspot
At Macquarie University Health we unite the best clinicians with world-renowned researchers and clinical educators to lead the development of health and medical education and practice in Australia. Bringing together Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie University Health clinics and the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, we are Australia's first fully integrated academic health precinct on a university campus. Founded to advance the tripartite missions of clinical care, learning and research, we are bold and ambitious in our pursuit of patient-centred excellence, and we are celebrating our 15-year anniversary.
About You
You are an operations professional who enjoys variety, practical problem-solving and seeing the direct line between good processes and better outcomes for people. You are comfortable moving between the strategic and the hands-on, you ask useful questions, and you bring sound judgement to a lean and evolving service environment. You may not have held a senior operations position before, but you have built and improved how things run, and you are ready to step up. Experience in a healthcare not-for-profit, or another government-funded or similarly complex setting, is highly regarded.
Selection Criteria
Relevant tertiary qualification, with experience in operations, service delivery or business management in a healthcare, not-for-profit, university or similarly complex environment
Experience setting up performance frameworks, service standards and reporting to monitor and improve service quality and performance, and using data to inform decisions and lift efficiency
Knowledge of government funding, contracts and grant management, including compliance and reporting obligations
Sound financial management, including budgets, forecasting and financial controls, and experience working with procurement and technology functions
Experience leading change, improving systems and processes, and managing competing priorities while keeping services running well
Strong stakeholder skills across executive, finance, HR, IT and procurement teams, with practical knowledge of compliance, risk, WHS, privacy and governance requirements
Demonstrated potential to grow as a leader, with a hands-on approach and the ability to build team capability
How to Apply
To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter (up to two pages) telling us why this role interests you and how your experience fits.
Applications Close: Sunday, 8th November 2026, 11:59pm AEDT
General enquiries: Please contact Rebecca Wood, Talent Acquisition Consultant at r.wood@mq.edu.au
For a confidential discussion about the role, please reach out to Katherine Burchfield, Executive Director, MindSpot at katherine.burchfield@mq.edu.au
**Please note that interviews may commence prior to the closing date**
**We reserve the right to progress or not proceed with applications prior to the closing date, and to close the advertisement early if required**
**Please note this position is only open to Australian citizens, permanent residents and those currently residing in Australia with full working rights**
Pre-Employment Checks
Macquarie University Health cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to