Business Development Manager – Academic Research and Capability, NSW Space Research Network

Full-time, 12-month fixed term position with possible extension. Located at The NSW Space Research Network (SRN) in Eveleigh. Opportunity to drive impactful partnerships, transform research into tangible ventures, and contribute to strategic growth. Base Salary $152,045 - $160,430 (HEO9) + 17% superannuation.

About the opportunity

The NSW Space Research Network (SRN) is a university-led initiative of the NSW Government designed to enhance NSW space industry capability through collaboration with government and academic research institutions. The SRN builds and supports collaboration and coordination between government, industry and research organisations to deliver space research and research translation to industry. We are focused on positioning NSW enterprises to compete on National and International stages by leveraging available funding opportunities both domestically and overseas. We will do this by connecting key stakeholders to undertake research and development activities aimed at translation into the space sector. We are seeking a Business Development Manager - Academic Research and Capability (BDM) to join this exciting venture. Working with the Chief Operating Officer and Co-Directors, the BDM will lead network efforts in identifying, securing and supporting new engagement opportunities with potential partners that lead to funding opportunities through commissioned projects and by attracting paying members to the Network.

Your key responsibilities

• lead strategic business development and planning
• provide expert strategic advice on commercialisation pathways ensuring integration of internal policies, external regulatory and industry requirements
• policy development, governance and corporate advice
• stakeholder engagement and external liaison
• operational management and compliance risk, financial resources and program management
• leadership and people management

About you

The University values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. As such, we see the importance of recruiting talent aligned to these values and are looking for a Business Development Manager - Academic Research and Capability who has:

Qualifications

• in-depth understanding of an academic research environment
• experience in the higher education sector
• technical background in Science or Engineering
• high proficiency in structuring and negotiating commercial agreements
• proven experience with legal, intellectual property and commercial frameworks
• financial management experience and literacy, experience managing budgets and controlling income and expenditure
• people leadership experience
• experience in the space research sector, with an established academic research network would be highly regarded.

Work Rights

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Gold employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.

Applications Close

Applications Close Tuesday 29 September 2026 11:59 PM

Our team is expanding, and we want to hire the most talented people we can. Continued success depends on it! So once you've had a chance to explore our current open positions, apply to the ones you feel suit you best and keep track of both your progress in the selection process, and new postings that might interest you! The University values are excellence, trust and accountability. The University of Sydney is committed to diversity and social inclusion. Applications from people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; equity target groups including women, people with disabilities, people who identify as LGBTIQ; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment. The University of Sydney may conduct routine pre-employment checks before an appointment is made.

Want to know more about working at the University of Sydney? https://www.sydney.edu.au/about-us.html

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