Look to the future

The Institute for Regional Futures delivers high-value consultancy advice, research, analysis, and innovation to support the socio-economic and spatial development of the Hunter region, regions in Australia, and the Asia-Pacific region.

A flagship research institute, led by Professor Roberta Ryan, we work with key government, industry, and community partners to inform the global debate on how to ensure successful outcomes for regional communities undergoing profound social and economic change. We specialise in rigorous, relevant, and revealing projects to convey insights that are clear, compelling, and actionable.

We exist to serve regional communities by taking research that matters to the world and bringing our global expertise home. Our well-established partnerships with all levels of government and industry enable us to drive impact in regions, especially at the local level and through regional collaborations.

See our recent publications / presentations:

• The Geography of Jobs recording - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YA2XvQp62RI
• Partnering with First Nations Communities in City and Regional Planning - https://greatercities.au/thought-leadership/research/projects/partnering-with-first-nations

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are our values of excellence, equity, engagement, and sustainability.

Be challenged and imagine with us

As a Senior Consultant, you will be contributing towards growing the impact of the Institute by developing and delivering fee-for-service projects and other strategic initiatives within our service areas of social science, economic development, and spatial (place-based) research. You will be working in close partnership with stakeholders including:

• Government agencies;
• Key regional, national, and international business, industry, and NGO partners, and
• University’s academic staff researchers in the Colleges.

What we offer

• A diverse range of exciting, purpose/values-driven projects.
• Work with, and be mentored by academic, industry, and community leaders, strengthening your professional network.
• A fresh approach to consulting under a commercial model focussed on outcomes and building capacity.
• Building and applying regional and national datasets, including through the continuation of the Hunter Research Foundation’s legacy, and establishing the Regions Matter national social research program.
• We offer a range of flexible working options in line with our Flexible Work Policy.

What challenges will you solve?

Using translational research, you will be solving real-life problems - informing the global debate and empowering communities in regions undergoing profound social and economic change.

Working directly on governance and policy issues you will help to:

• shape the economy in a way that is as fair and inclusive as possible to everyone;
• create decent work opportunities and;
• leave no one behind.

And we want you to bring your innovative ideas to the team.

What will you achieve?

You will lead projects by liaising with clients, collecting and analysing data, engaging with stakeholders / communities, and preparing impactful reports/presentations.

By leading project design and costing, drafting tenders and project proposals, you will play a key role in growing our fee-for-service area.

You will cultivate relationships with public and private sector stakeholders to develop new business opportunities locally, nationally, and internationally.

By bringing new ideas to the team, you will have a demonstrable impact in the shaping where we focus our research efforts and how we apply research and engagement to maximise policy impact.

How will you inspire us?

You will have:

• Ability to manage a range of different projects.
• Advanced capability to collect and analyse social, economic, or spatial data.
• Demonstrated business development capability.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with an ability to build a rapport with a range of stakeholders.
• Experience in project-based work, including designing, proposing, managing, and delivering projects in a consultancy, research, or industry setting.
• A personal interest or commitment to regional communities.

Conditions & Benefits

Salary range is $119,778 to $128,332 plus 17% superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience. This is a HEW level 9 appointment.

Fixed-term contract until July 2026 with the opportunity to extend (subject to funding and operational requirements) and is located at our inspiring NUspace building in the CBD.

To ensure we meet our goals, we need to make sure our staff are supported and happy at work. We offer a range of benefits and employment conditions that help you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively, including a range of leave options.

Your next steps

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role.

Your application must include:

• Your resume.
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for the position.
• A statement telling us about your:

1. Experience working with social, economic, and/or spatial data.
2. Commercial consulting, fee for service practice.
3. Business development/income generation.
4. Curiosity and ability to think critically, and;
5. Ability to write or present your findings and insights in engaging ways to a range of audiences.

For additional information on the position contact Amanda Wetzel, Director Research Programs, Institute for Regional Futures on 0460 848 680 or [email protected] using the subject line: Senior Consultant - Newcastle enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us on [email protected].

Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit.

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you.

Move to Newcastle or the Central Coast – Love Where You Live!

A move to Newcastle or the Central Coast offers you the choice to live in the city, by the sea or near bushland - the region offers a wonderful place for a family to grow and the opportunity to strike a work/life balance.

Visit the City of Newcastle site or visit the Central Coast to imagine your future.

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.

A position description is attached.