Senior R&D Portfolio Manager

Join to apply for the Senior R&D Portfolio Manager role at UNSW . The Senior R&D Portfolio Manager within TRaCE (Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy) is responsible for a portfolio of 20+ major R&D projects, working with lead researchers and industry partners to ensure projects are on track to meet key milestones and drive them toward commercial and scalable outcomes. This role is based in Australia. Opportunity Key focus: drive TRaCE’s R&D & commercialisation strategy for the Major R&D Project portfolio, provide commercialisation services for key projects and work collaboratively with UNSW research and support teams, companies, and investors to optimise portfolio success. Lead a team to provide commercialisation, analytical and project administration services across the portfolio and TRaCE’s R&D Vouchers program. Also drive design and operation of next iteration of a commercialisation and R&D incubator model as part of TRaCE’s legacy. Reports to the Research & Commercialisation Director and has two direct reports (R&D Portfolio Manager and Senior Contract Administrator) with dotted line to Business Development & Partnerships Manager. Remuneration & Details Remuneration: Competitive Salary Employment Type: Full time, 35 hours per week Duration: Fixed term contract Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia About TRaCE Strengthening institutional capability Incentivising and derisking research commercialisation through funding Supporting industry partners, SMEs, scaleups and startups to commercialise their technologies Making it easier to access infrastructure for technology development Delivering the critical skills needed to build Australia’s clean energy and circular industries for global deployment Focusing on transforming building ecosystems to accelerate delivery of scalable technologies with significant impact on emissions reduction About You (Skills and Experience) Relevant tertiary qualification with subsequent relevant experience or equivalent competence gained through any combination of education, training and experience. Proven experience managing high-performing teams and a portfolio of R&D projects spanning multiple disciplines and market sectors. Proven experience in research commercialisation and developing commercialisation plans for deep tech/hardware, ideally within the circular economy and clean energy sectors. Demonstrated success in delivering strategies, programs and partnerships that deliver commercialisation outcomes. Proven experience building networks and relationships with external stakeholders across the innovation and research commercialisation ecosystem in Australia or internationally. Knowledge of design thinking, new product development and innovation processes, and entrepreneurship methodologies or related disciplines. Knowledge of project monitoring and evaluation frameworks such as Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and Commercial / Adoption Readiness Level (CRL / ARL). Knowledge of research project management, with an understanding of the project life cycle and strategic development of project plans, objectives and documentation. Excellent consultation, influencing and relationship building skills with a proven ability to engage diverse stakeholders to achieve successful outcomes. Demonstrated strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a proven capacity to exercise initiative, flexibility and proactivity in developing robust solutions. Advanced written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail for deliverables. High level organisational skills with a proven ability to deal with multiple tasks, establish priorities and meet deadlines. Knowledge of budgeting and resource allocation procedures. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and productively within a team, but also to take initiative and work independently while managing competing demands. An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines. Knowledge of health & safety (psychosocial and physical) responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training. How to Apply For confidential inquiries, please contact Larry Little at Please email your application to Larry Little at Kennedy Austin Executive Search Consultants at CLOSING DATE: Applications close at 9am AEST on Thursday 27 November 2025. #J-18808-Ljbffr