• Flexible location + hybrid work arrangements
• Full-time and fixed-term
• Competitive salary and benefits including 17% Superannuation

Who are we?

Deakin’s Research Business Development and Commercialisation division (BD&C) is a key function within the University’s Research and Innovation portfolio, establishing partnerships with industry, government other public and private sector organisations and our community; and positioning Deakin as a leader in research translation. Dedicated to developing partnerships, business development, the division is responsible for steering the strategic vision and positing Deakin as a partner of choice, connecting researchers with opportunities and managing external engagement. The team also bring innovative solutions to market through commercialising Deakin’s intellectual property and supporting entrepreneurs through our Spark program. BD&C key areas within the division are Deakin’s Recycling and Clean Energy Commercialisation Hub (REACH) Trailblazer, Business Development, Intellectual Property, Commercialisation and Entrepreneurship.

The role will establish a value driven Program Management Office (PMO) to drive and support the successful delivery of the REACH Program, with a focus on identifying and building academic and industry partnerships to promote REACH capabilities, maximising opportunities to fully realise the REACH strategic vision. This role is responsible for key milestone delivery within each project, which is critical for meeting funding requirements and sustainable Program outcomes.

Reporting to the Director, REACH Industry Engagement, the Senior Program Manager, REACH Industry and Research will:

• Establish, develop and lead the REACH Industry and Research PMO team, providing program management of relevant project activities, particularly reviewing, monitoring and reporting on progress against detailed project management scopes, plans, communication and change management strategies, timelines and budgets
• Identify and build academic and industry partnerships to promote REACH capabilities and maximise opportunities
• Mentor and support the REACH team to deliver best practice training, mentoring and support to the respective REACH project teams
• Ensure alignment and effective working relationships across projects and engagement with researchers, industry team members, key enabling functions and project partners for the successful delivery of each project and the wider program
• Convene and coordinate University-wide governance and working groups as required to support the successful outcomes for each project
• Drive the selection of and establishment of an agreed delivery and quality assurance framework in collaboration with the relevant internal and external delivery partners
• Manage, track, and deliver the overall REACH program by ensuring the successful delivery of the individual projects through the setting of performance targets, goals, objectives and strategies for each, aligned with stakeholder expectations
• Build and leverage close relationships with government and other stakeholders to support delivery and announcement of successful milestones under the Trailblazer program
• Provide authoritative and trusted advice to the Executive, senior leaders and teams, University Council and relevant committees on contemporary practice and program activities
• Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including industry partners in the mapping, development and delivery of key outcomes as aligned with the program

To be successful, you’ll have:

• Qualifications and experience commensurate with appointment at level.
• Demonstrated capacity to build relationships and represent with internal and external partners and customers, and at the highest levels across industry, government and university sectors.
• Demonstrated industry or research sector experience of connecting research, funding and community impact.
• Relevant industry experience within the field, circular economy and/or clean energy.
• Proven understanding of university research culture and the pathways for commercialisation of research.
• Demonstrated ability to develop collaborative work teams to achieve quality customer service for clients.
• Understanding of research and technology concepts and ability to achieve commercial outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate and manage contractual arrangements and coordinate projects.

Here's how to apply: 

Please submit your updated resume along with a brief cover letter outlining your relevant skills and experience by clicking the 'Apply' button.

For a confidential discussion regarding this role, please contact Matthew Constable (Director, REACH Industry Engagement) on matthew.constable@deakin.edu.au

For a copy of the position description, please see below:

 Senior Program Manager, REACH Industry and Research PD (1).docx

Applications for this position close on 9^th February 2025.

This opportunity is open to all current continuing, fixed-term and casual Deakin staff members only.

Are You Ready?

Deakin is a Victorian university with a global impact. We are an agile, dynamic, and innovative university committed to making a positive impact through our excellence in education, research and innovation and the contributions we make to the wider community.

We understand that our reputation has been built on the dedication and expertise of our staff and we offer a dynamic and diverse working environment with opportunities to grow and develop careers. We believe that a progressive, thriving culture will ensure that people choose to come, and stay at Deakin and contribute to our ongoing success.

We value diversity and aim to build an inclusive environment that champions, embraces and respects differences. We support and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people of all abilities, cultures, sexual orientation, and genders.