Senior R&D Portfolio Manager

Senior R&D Portfolio Manager Overview 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. The role works with lead researchers and industry partners to ensure projects are on track to meet key milestones and drive them toward commercial and scalable outcomes. Location Australia – Kensington, Sydney Remuneration & Employment Competitive Salary Full time, 35 hours per week Fixed term contract Responsibilities Drive TRaCE’s R&D & commercialisation strategy for the Major R&D Project portfolio. Provide commercialisation services for key projects and collaborate with UNSW research and support teams, companies, and investors. Lead a team delivering commercialisation, analytical and project administration services across the portfolio and TRaCE’s R&D Vouchers program. Design and operate next‑generation commercialisation and R&D incubator models as part of TRaCE’s legacy. Report to the Research & Commercialisation Director; direct reports include the R&D Portfolio Manager and Senior Contract Administrator. About TRaCE TRaCE is creating an innovation ecosystem that will foster the change needed to de‑risk and bring research solutions to market faster, improving Australia’s standing on international innovation indices. Strengthen institutional capability Incentivise and derisk research commercialisation through funding Support industry partners, SMEs, scaleups and startups to commercialise their technologies Make it easier to access infrastructure for technology development Deliver the critical skills needed to build Australia’s clean energy and circular industries for global deployment About You (Skills & Experience) Relevant tertiary qualification with subsequent relevant experience or equivalent competence gained through education, training and experience. Proven experience managing high‑performing teams and a portfolio of R&D projects across 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, programmes and partnerships that achieve 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. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to exercise initiative, flexibility and proactivity. Advanced written and verbal communication skills with a high level of attention to detail for deliverables. High organisational skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks, establish priorities and meet deadlines. Knowledge of budgeting and resource allocation procedures. Ability to work collaboratively and 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 responsibilities and commitment to attend relevant training. How to Apply The University of New South Wales will be supported in the search for this appointment by the executive search firm Kennedy Austin Executive Search Consultants. For confidential enquiries, 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