Project Manager – Research (Livestock Genetics & Genomics)

Job Title: Project Manager – Research (Livestock Genetics & Genomics)

Department: Sustainable Profitable Sheep Production

Reports To: Research Managers

Direct Reports: Nil

Location: Sydney Office (hybrid).

POSITION PURPOSE

The position will contribute to strategic direction and manage operational functions of AWI’s Sustainable Profitable Sheep Production portfolio as determined and allocated by the Research Manager. The role includes identifying and recommending project opportunities, liaising with project providers, generating contracts, reviewing milestones and managing project budgets.

As a member of the Research team, the position will provide support to other programs when required.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Under the direction of the relevant Research Manager, manage projects within the Sustainable Profitable Sheep Production program.
• Assist in identifying and articulating strategic priorities for investment in the Sustainable Profitable Sheep Production programs through developing an investment plan of projects and investment logic for strategic goals;
• Meet with and manage stakeholders to scope and develop project proposals on identified priority areas for recommendation to the relevant Research Manager;
• Work with research and delivery partners in the Sustainable Profitable Sheep Production programs to develop accurate budgets and work-plans for projects;
• When requested by the relevant Research Manager, negotiate terms of contracts with Researchers and third parties, so that targets, outcomes, milestones and intellectual property rights are consistent with AWI objectives;
• Evaluate the scientific, commercial and extension, merit of submitted project proposals under the Sustainable Profitable Sheep Production programs or identify and use appropriate external referees to provide such advice;
• Contribute to the development of Board papers related to Sustainable Profitable Sheep Production projects;
• Manage reports and provide recommendations to the relevant Research Manager on allocated project milestone reviews, journal publications and project data, and assist with the interpretation and actioning of those reports. Manage project reviews and STOP/GO assessments and make recommendations on approval of milestones to the Research Manager;
• Ensure all RDA activities comply with AWI policies, procurement guidelines and statutory funding requirements. Support robust project governance, including risk management. Contribute to internal reporting on program and project performance.
• Develop scientifically defensible communications, extension materials, , and develop and deliver approved oral presentations to relevant audiences;
• Liaise with AWI staff from other programs and departments to enlist their assistance with allocated projects in consultation with the relevant Research Manager
• Represent the Sustainable Profitable Sheep Production Program in internal and external meetings when directed by the relevant Research Manager;
• Represent AWI at industry forums, workshops and technical meetings
• Attend meetings, take minutes and progress actions arising as requested by the Research Manager;
• Liaise with relevant AWI Managers on extension and coordinate and contribute to the development and promotion of research multimedia products.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualifications in Animal Science (Livestock Genetics & Genomics), Agriculture or related discipline

Technical & Management Knowledge

• Solid analytical skills
• agritech and data analysis
• Working knowledge of MS Office
• Knowledge/background in the Australian livestock or sheep industry

Skills & Attributes

• Previous experience in a project management related role is desirable
• Previous experience in industry roles is highly regarded
• Strong communication skills including excellent written and verbal
• Demonstrable stakeholder management and relationship skills
• Ability to work as part of a team, as well as autonomously
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Proven ability to prioritise and meet deadlines

KEY RELATIONSHIPS

Internal

• On-Farm and Off-Farm Project & Program Managers
• Other Project Officers & Administrators in On-Farm and Off-Farm and AWI
• Extension project managers
• AWI Legal Services and IP team
• AWI Finance team
• AWI Communications team

External

• AWI funded researchers and consultants
• AWI levy payers
• Representatives from RDCs and industry bodies

To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to: jess.grouse@wool.com