Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Accomplishments
Professional Development
Certification
Timeline
Generic

CJ Adamson

Barrie,ON

Summary

Accomplished leader with extensive experience at the University of Sydney, recognized for strategic planning and exceptional team leadership. Achieved significant improvements in student satisfaction and engagement through innovative project management and impactful policy development. Proficient in budget management and human resource oversight, committed to ensuring operational excellence and fostering inclusive environments.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

SCHOOL MANAGER/FACULTY MANAGER

University of Sydney
02.2018 - 01.2025
  • Provided strategic and operational leadership as part of the School Executive Leadership team across several areas, including human resources, education, research, financial, and facility management
  • Provided high-level executive support and advice to the Head of School and Dean
  • Supporting high-performing researchers in establishing research teams and assisting in effective research expenditure in line with relevant policy and legislation
  • Led implementation of strategic initiatives and major projects within the School, including large-scale change projects
  • Responsible for human resource management and budget management for operational and research funding
  • Former Co-Chair of the University of Sydney Pride Network, supporting the inclusion of LGBTIQ staff and students
  • Manage and coach staff within a unionized environment to ensure effective teamwork and a high level of service delivery across all portfolios
  • Managed annual budget (25m), ensuring optimal allocation of resources and financial stability for the school
  • Developed comprehensive strategic plans for the enhancement of student experience, successfully improving student satisfaction and engagement

MANAGER (EDUCATION SUPPORT)

University of Sydney
10.2016 - 02.2018
  • Managed student recruitment, curriculum development, accreditation of five nursing programs, clinical placement, and administration functions, meeting relevant targets and deadlines
  • Managed curriculum review and provided strategic advice on School Education initiatives
  • Business development and implementing strategic initiatives at the Faculty and University levels
  • Managed a team of professional staff within the Education Support portfolio, fostering a collaborative environment to enhance student services and academic administration
  • Reviewed and initiated policy changes to enhance effectiveness and clarity, reducing potential interpretation issues for staff and students
  • Gave strategic advice on university policies and procedures to academic staff, ensuring informed decision-making and compliance

MANAGER (ACADEMIC INTEGRITY)

University of Sydney
01.2014 - 10.2016
  • Managed all aspects of the administration of academic progression, academic honesty, and appeals
  • Managed difficult student situations with compassion according to relevant University policy
  • Provided clear and practical advice to students, assisting them in planning their degrees and improving their university experience
  • Responded to student and staff inquiries through phone, email, and in-person interactions
  • Maintained and updated website information using content management systems
  • Functioned as a Subject Matter Expert and Business Analyst for Misconduct and Appeals processes
  • Member of working groups for Special Consideration and Student Retention and Engagement

Education

Graduate Certificate - Business Administration

University of Sydney
Australia

Master of Arts -

University of Sydney
Australia

Bachelor’s degree with Honours - English

York University
Canada

Skills

  • Project management
  • Policy development
  • Team leadership
  • Budget management
  • Human resource management
  • Strategic planning
  • Change management
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Data analysis
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Conflict resolution
  • Crisis management
  • Excellent communication
  • Process improvements
  • Negotiation skills
  • Cross-functional team management

Accomplishments

  • Led research strategy in partnership with the Deputy Head of School, doubling research income within 6 months.
  • Successful implementation of Academic Advice sessions to support students at risk or on academic probation. Advice sessions increased retention rates by 20%, which are still operationalized.
  • Led institution-wide initiatives as Co-Chair of the Pride Network, contributing to the University of Sydney's successful elevation from Bronze to Gold Status as an Employer of Choice at the Australian Workplace Equality Awards.
  • Created the LGBTIQ Student Support Liaison Officer role, established at the university level.
  • Drove a strategic data-gathering initiative that contributed to the Sydney Nursing School's rise to #1 in Australia and #14 globally in QS World University Rankings. Utilized performance metrics to inform key strategic decisions and enhance global competitiveness.

Professional Development

  • ProSci Change Management Certification | ProSci
  • Sydney Women’s Leadership Program | University of Sydney
  • Managing Mental Health at the University of Sydney | University of Sydney
  • Business Analyst Fundamentals | PM Partners
  • Mental Health First Aid | University of Sydney
  • Cultural Competency Leadership Program | University of Sydney
  • WHS for Managers and Supervisors | University of Sydney
  • Diversity and Inclusion (Addressing Unconscious Bias) | University of Sydney
  • School Managers Development Program | University of Sydney

Certification

  • ProSCI Change Management Certification 2023
  • Mental Health First Aid 2023

Timeline

SCHOOL MANAGER/FACULTY MANAGER

University of Sydney
02.2018 - 01.2025

MANAGER (EDUCATION SUPPORT)

University of Sydney
10.2016 - 02.2018

MANAGER (ACADEMIC INTEGRITY)

University of Sydney
01.2014 - 10.2016

Graduate Certificate - Business Administration

University of Sydney

Master of Arts -

University of Sydney

Bachelor’s degree with Honours - English

York University
CJ Adamson