Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships

Every institution values excellence. What matters most is why.
Griffith was created to be a different type of university. You’ll find we’re about leading research, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education. But what sets us apart is why those things matter and how you’ll achieve them.

Why? Griffith brings together exceptional minds like yours from across the globe and from all walks of life. Here, we do incredible work, questioning and challenging, always in the pursuit of excellence.

About the opportunity

At Griffith University, fostering impactful partnerships is fundamental. Our Industry and External Engagement (IEE) Portfolio prioritises strong relationships with industry, governments, nonprofits , and the community, driving positive social outcomes through collaborations across Queensland, Australia and globally.

The Senior Manager Strategic Partnerships will work with other senior managers at the University, under the broad direction of the Director Industry and External Engagement (IEE), to achieve outcomes consistent with the objectives of the Office of the Vice President Industry and External Engagement and University Strategic Plan. This includes leading and developing a suite of multidisciplinary partnerships to build and grow Griffith’s profile and reputation and achieve University strategic goals.

As a Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships, you’ll take on complex local and global challenges, using your skills and experience to drive meaningful change. Here’s how you’ll make it matter:

• Identify, develop and manage major strategic collaborative opportunities involving multiple partners and/or internal stakeholders, with primary responsibility for Griffith Business School and complementary coverage across Arts, Education and LawManage and develop a set of partnerships for the University with a range of stakeholders/targets, including partner liaison, partnership prospectus of ideas, proposal writing and presentations to grow current and potential partnerships that meet the University’s strategic industry partnership goals.
• Engage with Academic Groups to identify, develop and lead business development for impact that may span research, education and training projects and programs.
• Partnering with Central Portfolios (including Research, Advancement and Marketing & Communications) to progress activities including media, marketing, promotion and external relationships to align partnerships for impact.
• Liaise, consult and work closely with key external stakeholders to ensure synergies are optimised, and that promotion of Griffith and its unique capabilities are maximised.

Provide strategic advice, expert negotiation and professional expertise in the development of all relevant partnership agreements and documentation which support the development of mutually beneficial partnership arrangements and meet legislative, University and policy requirements.

About you

What matters most is your drive to create a brighter future that benefits all. Through our core principles of excellence, ethics and engagement, you’ll thrive on seeing the direct and lasting impact you’ll have on every community and every future.

You will also have:

• Relevant postgraduate qualifications and possess substantial proven experience in business development. This includes expertise in value creation and opportunity identification, communication and collaborative relationship management, and negotiation and deal-making skills.
• Experience in leading strategic projects including implementing plans, managing resources, and ensure projects are delivered on time.
• Proficient in crafting high-level communications for diverse audiences, and ability to convey complex issues clearly and persuasively.
• Competent in facilitatingcollaboration agreements with legal and commercial departments.
• Adept in stakeholder management, leadership, and a solid understanding of higher education administration would further enhance the ability to fulfill these responsibilities effectively.
• Prior experience or background in the sector would be highly regarded.

Candidates must have full unrestricted Australian work rights and will be subject to a National criminal history check.

What we can offer

This is a full time, continuing opportunity based at Brisbane South (Nathan) campus. As Griffith is a multi-site university, you may be required to work across other locations.

Griffith University’s sites are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.

Salary
HEW 10 – Base - $147,057.74 + 17% superannuation. Full package is $172,057.55.

Why join Griffith?

As a values-led organisation, at Griffith University, we've worked hard to create a dynamic and strong organisational culture. We offer:

• Wide range of Learning and Development opportunities

• Mix of on campus and work from home options available and a supportive work environment

• Salary packaging options and corporate health discounts

• Generous leave entitlements including paid parental leave and leave loading

• Support with future learning opportunities through our educational staff assistance scheme

• Opportunities for internal mobility

• Health Safety and Wellbeing initiatives – on campus Gym facilities

At Griffith, we’re committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all - whoever you are and wherever you’re from. If you require any accommodations, we welcome you to let us know so we can work with you to participate fully in our recruitment experience.

Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. For more information please visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page. Our University is committed to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive community for all. In alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence (2025), Griffith University includes a declaration as part of the recruitment journey to uphold the values and standards of our community. Griffith University also maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of modern slavery. For more information, please refer to Griffith’s Modern Slavery Policy.

How to apply

Please submit your application online and ensure it includes the following:

• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role please refer to the qualifications above and the position description.

• Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details

For application and recruitment advice please reach out to Laura Whitworth, Talent Acquisition Partner on l.whitworth-matthews@griffith.edu.au

Closing date: Tuesday 20th October at 11:59pm. All applications must be submitted online.