The Opportunity

• Be the change universities and partners need to transition to a net zero economy
• Hands-on, senior role managing day-to-day operations of cutting-edge multifaceted program
• Full-time, fixed term contract to June 2027

The Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy (TRaCE) is the first fully integrated research to market eco-system in Australia and will accelerate the translation of disruptive technologies out of the laboratory and into local manufacturing and global deployment. This $280M program includes industry cash investment, combined cash investment from UNSW and the University of Newcastle, as well as the Commonwealth.

This one-of-a-kind, hands-on, autonomous, senior role is responsible for managing the business operations of the TRaCE program. Collaborating closely with university shared services, you'll ensure compliance with Commonwealth funding, facilitate agreements with industry partners, and address governance and statutory matters. Reporting to and assisting the Executive Director, you'll also craft budgets, operational plans, and manage data collection and reporting for various research and collaborative projects.

The Organisation

TRaCE is funded in part by the flagship Commonwealth Government Trailblazer Universities Program which aims to transform research commercialisation and university-industry engagement by creating ecosystems of innovation centres. Our aim is to lift the impact of Australia’s researchers and encourage the translation of university research towards Australia’s National Manufacturing Priorities.

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn’t only what we do, it’s how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. Taking this combined approach is what makes our work matter. It’s the reason we’re Australia’s number one university for impact and among the nation’s Top 20 employers.

Benefits and Culture:

UNSW offer a competitive salary and access to benefits including:

• Hybrid/Flexible working
• Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas Period
• Access to learning and career development
• Progressive HR practices
• Discounts and entitlements
• Affordable on-campus parking

About the successful applicant

You can demonstrate your significant senior-level experience and deep understanding of university operations, academic culture, governance, and innovation ecosystems. Previous experience in managing complex university-government-industry collaborations is ideal, and could suit entrepreneurial-minded school managers, senior administration executives, deputy directors, or equivalent.

To Apply:

If accelerating the net zero economy through contributing to the new frontier in the commercialisation of RaCE research is of interest to you, please submit your CV, Cover Letter (including responses to Skills and Experience required nominated in the Position Description) via the APPLY NOW button.

Contact: Shiree Thomas, Talent Acquisition Consultant E: [email protected], using the subject line: Chief Operating Officer - Recycling & Clean Energy Program (TRaCE) enquiry via EthicalJobs.

A position description is attached.

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.