Contracts Manager - Research Grants & Contracts

UNSW; Sydney; Hybrid; AUD 132,000 - 152,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangements

9-day fortnights (optional)

Additional leave over Christmas

Lifelong learning opportunities

On-campus parking

Job summary

UNSW invites applications for a Contracts Manager within Research Grants and Contracts (RGC). The role leads a team of Contract Officers to deliver high-quality, customer-focused contracting services and negotiates complex research agreements on behalf of UNSW.

You will advise on research contracting matters, collaborate with senior stakeholders, and contribute to process improvements while supporting the university's research ecosystem.

Qualifications

• Experience in preparing, reviewing and negotiating complex research grant agreements.
• Strong contractual, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor and develop staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of Contract Officers (3+ direct reports).
• Oversee review and negotiation of contractual and competitive research agreements.
• Provide expert advice on research contracting matters and escalate complex issues when needed.
• Collaborate with senior managers across the University to deliver high-quality services.

Job description

• Full-time (35 hours per week), Continuing (permanent) role
• Flexible hybrid working and optional 9-day fortnight
• Salary from $132,445 + 17% superannuation

This Job is based in Australia

• Full-time (35 hours per week), Continuing (permanent) role
• Flexible hybrid working and optional 9-day fortnight
• Salary from $132,445 + 17% superannuation

The Opportunity

• Lead complex, high-impact research grant agreements
• Strengthen team performance and service delivery
• Work at the centre of a major research ecosystem

Research Grants and Contracts (RGC) within the Division of Research & Enterprise contributes to UNSW’s research performance and profile via the effective management of the University’s research income. RGC is the key link between UNSW researchers, executive and funding agencies such as the NHMRC, ARC, other government and non- government research funders, philanthropic competitive grant funders and industry partners.

Each year the RGC manages more than 2800 applications and 6000 ongoing projects, supporting more than 2,000 UNSW academics.

The Contracts Manager is a senior member of the team, responsible for delivering high-quality, customer-focused services relating to research agreements. The role leads, motivates and supports a team of Contract Officers to achieve team objectives and deliver excellent stakeholder service. Working closely with senior managers and colleagues across the University, the position oversees the review and negotiation of contractual and competitive research agreements, provides expert advice on research contracting matters, and escalates complex issues to legal and Industry & Innovation where appropriate.

The role reports to the Senior Manager, Contracts, leads and develops 3+ direct reports and contributes to building a cohesive, capable and effective team.

About UNSW

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. We are a large organisation with a diverse and highly talented community doing extraordinary work. We are driven to be thoughtful, practical and purposeful in all we do, and this collective approach is what gives our work impact. It is also why UNSW is consistently ranked among the world’s top 20 universities in the QS World University Rankings and is a proud member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight. If you’re seeking a career where you can thrive, be challenged and contribute to meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

Benefits And Culture

• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements (3 days per week onsite at the UNSW Kensington campus)
• Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas Period
• Access to lifelong learning and career development
• Discounts and entitlements
• Affordable on-campus parking

About You

You have relevant qualifications and/or substantial experience in preparing, reviewing and negotiating complex research grant agreements, together with strong contractual, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

You will have demonstrated experience leading, mentoring and developing staff, including setting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback and supporting team members to build their knowledge and confidence.

You will be committed to fostering a collaborative, inclusive and customer-focused team culture, while contributing to effective workflow management, quality assurance and continuous improvement.

You will also bring sound judgement in managing sensitive and complex matters, and the ability to contribute to strategic planning, policy development and implementation. Strong analytical, prioritisation and time management skills are essential, along with a commitment to UNSW’s values, policies and health and safety responsibilities.

Pre-Employment Checks

As part of our recruitment process candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment screening, which may include reference checks, qualification verification, right-to-work verification, and criminal history screening where relevant to the role.

Contact

Shiree Thomas, Talent Acquisition Partner e: [e-mail]

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.