Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships

Every institution values excellence. What matters most is why.

Griffith was created to be a different type of university. As Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships, you’ll find we’re about leading research, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education and partnerships. 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.

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 engagement with major strategic collaborative opportunities that cover multiple partners and/or internal stakeholders, with a focus on the health sector.
• Manage 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 partnership 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 delivered on time.
• Proficient in crafting high-level communications for diverse audiences, and ability to convey complex issues clearly and persuasively.
• Competent in facilitating  collaboration 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 health sector would be highly regarded.

What we can offer

This is a continuing, full time position primarily based at either Griffith University Gold Coast Brisbane South (Nathan). As Griffith is a multi-site University you may be required to visit across other locations.



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

Salary Range

The full time equivalent base salary will be HEW Level 10 $142,222 per annum + 17% superannuation. The total FTE package will be $166,399 per annum.

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:

• 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
• Wide range of Learning and Development opportunities

How to apply

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. 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.

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

• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role (please refer to the About you section above and the position description)
• Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details

Applicants must have unrestricted working rights. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

For further information specifically about this role, please contact Mrs Danielle Godbier, Director - Industry & Community Partnerships at [email protected].

For application and recruitment advice, please contact Laura Whitworth, Talent Acquisition Partner at [email protected]. 

Closing date: Sunday 15th February at 11:59pm AEST. All applications must be submitted online.