• Full-Time, Fixed-Term Position for 1.5 years

About Us
Western Sydney University is a modern, forward-thinking, research-led institution at the heart of Australia’s fastest-growing and most economically significant region. With 11 campuses across Sydney and international locations in Vietnam and Indonesia—plus planned expansion in India—it serves nearly 50,000 students, 3,500 staff, and a global network of over 200,000 alumni. Ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide, over 85% of its assessed research is rated ‘World Standard’ or above. The University is ranked #1 globally and nationally in the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings (2022-2025) for its commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) is a research institute within Western Sydney University. The Institute conducts fundamental and applied research in ecology, physiology, genetics and global change biology. Within the past decade, the Institute has become a world-leading centre of excellence in ecosystem function and environmental responses to climate change. With a unique suite of world-class research facilities, the Institute collaborates widely with Australian and international institutions to craft scientific research of the highest calibre.
For more information, please visit our website www.westernsydney.edu.au/hie

The Opportunity
Are you passionate about driving innovation and building strategic partnerships that deliver real-world impact? HIE is seeking an experienced professional to take on the pivotal role of Partnership Development Manager for the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub.

As the Partnership Development Manager, you will take the lead in fostering strategic partnerships between research, industry, government and community organisations. Your work will support the development and delivery of cutting-edge research and innovation projects, while also enabling activities that promote awareness and adoption of decarbonisation solutions across NSW. In this role, you will lead the operational and strategic direction of the Land & Primary Industries Network and contribute to the broader success of the Hub. You’ll identify emerging trends and opportunities for collaboration, build multidisciplinary teams, and develop strategies to attract funding and resources. Your ability to translate research into commercial, policy, or social impact will be key to driving meaningful outcomes.

Additionally, you’ll lead engagement initiatives that bring stakeholders together through events and activities designed to foster collaboration and co-create decarbonisation solutions. Your strong communication skills will help build trusted relationships across the Network and beyond, ensuring alignment and shared purpose.

This is a full-time, fixed-term position for 1.5 years based at Hawkesbury Campus, although travel to other campuses of the University may be required. Please review the position description for further information.

About You
We’re looking for a strategic thinker who will bring a mix of experience, leadership and collaboration to drive meaningful outcomes in complex environments. You will have:

• A postgraduate qualification and relevant experience in government or industry.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and aligning diverse stakeholders.
• A strong track record in managing large, complex projects.
• The ability to work effectively with culturally and geographically diverse teams.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills and a diplomatic approach to competing priorities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• A proactive, collaborative mindset and a focus on outcomes.
• Clear communication skills and confidence using digital tools and platforms.

Why Join Us?
Joining our team comes with a range of exceptional benefits designed to support your well-being and professional growth, including:

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy flexible work arrangements, generous leave entitlements, and the option to work from home up to 2 days per week to support work-life balance.
• Professional Development: Take advantage of professional development and networking opportunities, including secondments, structured training, and leadership programs to enhance your skills across the University
• Staff Benefits: Enjoy health and fitness programs like Fitness Passport, library facilities, staff discounts through partnerships such as those with the Western Sydney Wanderers and Sydney Zoo, along with a wide variety of other goods and services.

Remuneration Package: HEW Level 9 $159,739 to $170,588 p.a. (comprising Salary of $134,981 to $144,149 p.a., plus Superannuation and Leave Loading).

Closing Date: 8:30pm Sunday 24 August 2025

How to apply: https://uws.nga.net.au/?jati=5215C86C-3A8E-793D-3B88-E41B200508EA

Position Enquiries: Please direct enquires about the role to Pr ofessor Ben Smith, Director of Research on (02) 4570 1647 or via email at [email protected].

Recruitment Enquiries: Specific enquiries or issues with your application may be directed to the Talent Acquisition Team at [email protected].

Working Rights in Australia - Eligibility
You must provide evidence of your full-time working rights in Australia at time of application.

Please note, only those applications submitted via the WSU online recruitment system will be accepted.