Director, Enterprise Partnerships (Health and Life Sciences) Melbourne Enterprise | Melbourne Research and Enterprise Portfolio Full-time | Fixed term for 5 years The University of Melbourne is home to some of Australia's most significant research, innovation and entrepreneurial capabilities, with a track record that includes strategic agreements with leading global organisations. This is a significant opportunity to build on that foundation, grow the University's external partnerships and unlock new opportunities across the health and life sciences sector. We are seeking an exceptional senior leader to lead Enterprise Partnerships across health and life sciences. Reporting to the Executive Director, Partnerships and Precincts, you will identify, shape and convert strategic opportunities that connect the University's world-class capabilities with industry, government, health services, medical research institutes and other key partners. As a senior institutional interface, you will bring together expertise from across the University to develop high-impact partnerships that accelerate research translation, support improved health outcomes, build workforce capability, influence policy and generate lasting economic and societal impact. The opportunity This is a career-defining opportunity to build on a strong foundation of global partnerships and shape the next generation of health and life sciences engagement at one of the world's leading universities. Building on a strong track record of strategic agreements that are among the first of their kind in Australia, you will have the opportunity to develop new partnerships and extend the University's impact across Australia and internationally. You will lead strategic partnership development, business development and key account management across the sector, building trusted relationships with senior external stakeholders and translating the University's research, education, talent and innovation capabilities into compelling partner propositions. You will also strengthen a more market-facing, sector-led and partner-centric approach to enterprise engagement, while leading and developing a high-performing partnerships team aligned to the University's strategic priorities. Key responsibilities include: Originate, shape and convert high-value strategic partnerships, collaborations and commercial opportunities across the health and life sciences sector. Build influential relationships with senior leaders across industry, government, healthcare, medical research and innovation, both nationally and internationally. Translate the University's research, education, talent, commercialisation and enterprise capabilities into compelling value propositions for partners. Identify and prioritise a strong pipeline of opportunities, applying commercial judgement, governance and disciplined account and performance management. Mobilise multidisciplinary expertise across faculties, research institutes and professional services to respond to complex opportunities and maximise impact. Strengthen a sector-led, partner-centric approach to enterprise engagement, including data-informed decision-making and effective use of CRM and emerging technologies. Lead and develop a high-performing partnerships team aligned to the University's strategic priorities. About you You are an accomplished partnerships, commercial, business development or enterprise leader with deep knowledge of the health and life sciences sector and a strong track record of creating and growing complex, high-value partnerships. You bring strategic insight, commercial acumen and exceptional relationship-building capability, with the credibility to engage senior stakeholders, navigate complex environments and turn opportunities into meaningful outcomes. You will bring: Significant experience leading strategic partnerships, business development or commercial activity within industry, government, healthcare, research or innovation environments. Deep knowledge of the health and life sciences sector, with the ability to identify emerging trends across biotechnology, medical technologies, pharmaceuticals, precision medicine, research translation and related fields and translate these into strategic partnership opportunities. Experience working within, or closely alongside, research-intensive, innovation-led or knowledge-based organisations, with the ability to connect complex research capability with external partner needs. A strong track record of establishing and growing influential relationships across industry, government, healthcare, research and innovation ecosystems and converting these into strategic opportunities. Demonstrated commercial judgement in structuring complex partnerships, evaluating opportunities, managing risk and navigating governance to achieve sustainable outcomes. Experience shaping new approaches, capabilities or operating models in complex environments and bringing diverse stakeholders with you. Outstanding communication, influencing and stakeholder engagement skills, with the judgement and credibility to build alignment and influence senior decision-makers. A collaborative and inclusive leadership style, with experience setting direction, building capability and developing high-performing teams. How to apply To apply, please submit: A current CV. A cover letter (maximum two pages) outlining your suitability for the role. For role or application process enquiries, please contact Lucy Porter, Executive Recruitment Partner, at exec-recruitment@unimelb.edu.au. If you are ready to build on world-class research and innovation capabilities, grow high-impact partnerships and shape lasting health, economic and societal impact, we invite you to apply. Applications must be submitted through the online application portal and will not be accepted by email. Please note: The University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applications close: Monday 9th November 2026 at 11:55pm Melbourne time. Position Description: PD - Director, Enterprise Partnerships (Health, LS).pdf PD - Director, Enterprise Partnerships (Health, LS).docx Explore leadership opportunities to shape the future and growth of the University of Melbourne - Executive Opportunities Welcome to the University of Melbourne – where our vision for positive societal change creates impact. Join our community of world-class thinkers, where innovation thrives, and your ideas shape the future. Why choose us? You'll work among the best, pushing the boundaries of knowledge with passion. Whether you're driving groundbreaking research, inspiring the next generation through teaching, or providing essential professional services, we empower you to excel. At the University of Melbourne, your potential is our priority. Elevate your career, make a real difference, and be part of a diverse community that values your unique contribution. Your journey to professional and personal growth starts here. Discover more at - https://about.unimelb.edu.au/ At the heart of our mission is a commitment to enriching society through education and research. Through our strategy "Advancing Melbourne," we're not just shaping our own future; we're shaping the future of the state, the nation, and our global community. Together, we propel Australia forward, positioning it as an ambitious, forward-thinking leader on the world stage. Our staff play a key role in elevating Australia's reputation and influence globally. Your contributions are the driving force behind our ambition to be a leading force for positive change. Join us, and let's advance Melbourne – and the world – together. Discover more The University has committed to a strategic vision which aims to create a thriving, fair and diverse university community, working together respectfully to make a difference to each other and in the world. Join us on our journey to build a future where everyone in our community can feel a strong sense of belonging, and diverse perspectives fuel success. Discover more Want to know more about us, our processes, or future opportunities? We would love to connect with you! Get in touch with our friendly Talent Acquisition team at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au

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