Australia’s Sustainable Built Environment National Research Centre (SBEnrc) is seeking a visionary and results-driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead its operational and strategic functions. With an ambitious mission to enhance the performance of Australia's built environment, SBEnrc is poised for even greater impact in its sixth triennium (2025-27). As COO, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of collaborative research, supporting SBEnrc’s vision of becoming a world-class research and knowledge hub in sustainable planning, design, construction, and asset management across the housing, buildings, and infrastructure sectors.
About SBEnrc
Established in 2010, SBEnrc is a leader in industry-funded research focused on creating sustainable solutions for the Australian built environment. With its national network spanning four key Australian states, SBEnrc is at the forefront of applied research in areas including social and affordable housing, digital engineering, circular economy, sustainable procurement, and green energy transitions. With a dedicated research team and strong national and international collaborations, SBEnrc is poised to drive transformative change in the industry.
Role Overview
As COO, you will be responsible for leading the Centre’s operations, research programs, and investment activities under the strategic direction of the CEO. This is a high-profile role that requires an outstanding leader with proven experience in managing research-driven programs, building strong relationships across sectors, and driving organisational growth. Your leadership will be instrumental in ensuring the successful delivery of SBEnrc’s business plan and contributing to its national and international research objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide operational and strategic leadership to ensure the Centre achieves its objectives.
* Supervise and mentor staff, overseeing the delivery of the Centre’s strategic and research programs.
* Leverage industry, government, and research partnerships to increase investment and impact.
* Lead efforts in securing competitive research funding and driving collaborative research programs.
* Manage the effective allocation of resources, making recommendations to the CEO and Board.
* Coordinate financial management and ensure the Centre adheres to sound fiscal practices.
* Represent the CEO at key strategic discussions, initiatives, and Board meetings.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders to advance SBEnrc’s research agenda.
The Ideal Candidate
You are a dynamic, innovative leader with extensive experience in the built environment sector and a passion for advancing collaborative research. You bring the following qualifications and expertise to the role:
Essential
* Relevant undergraduate and master’s level qualifications in a built environment-related discipline (e.g., engineering, architecture, construction management).
* Proven technical expertise in the building and construction industry, particularly in advanced IT and process improvements.
* Strong leadership experience with the ability to manage and motivate diverse teams.
* Demonstrated ability to manage collaborative, multi-disciplinary research projects, delivering on time, within budget, and meeting quality standards.
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to build constructive relationships across industry, government, and research stakeholders.
* Strong commitment to ethical leadership and adherence to policies, procedures, and legislation.
Desirable
* Additional qualifications in project management and/or business administration.
* Potential to contribute to industry and academic publications.
This is a unique opportunity to join a leading national research centre and drive innovation in sustainable development. If you have the vision, leadership, and expertise to make a significant impact, we encourage you to apply.
Role Requirements
As this is a fixed-term contract, you will require current work rights in Australia that match the tenure of this role. Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin’s satisfaction.
Why Join SBEnrc?
* Innovative Environment: Lead impactful projects that shape the future of the built environment in Australia and globally.
* Collaborative Culture: Work alongside passionate researchers, industry leaders, and government partners.
* Professional Growth: The opportunity to shape a high-performing team and elevate SBEnrc’s standing in the research community.
* Strategic Impact: Contribute to the Centre’s strategic direction and the delivery of cutting-edge research programs.
Join Us!
If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents:
* Updated Resume
* Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience
* A document addressing the section criteria
If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, please contact our careers team on [emailprotected] or 08 9266 9000 (option 3,1), or Abby Fox at [emailprotected], quoting the reference number. Please note applications will not be accepted via this email address.
Applications close: Sunday, 9 February, 2025 #J-18808-Ljbffr