Partnerships & Innovation Manager

About UniServices and the Role

UniServices is the commercialisation and growth division of the University of Auckland, dedicated to advancing research, innovation, and industry collaboration. We are seeking two Partnerships & Innovation Managers to spearhead the development of research partnerships and funding avenues in either the Energy & Environmental Resilience or Cancer & Precision Health portfolios. This is a full-time onsite opportunity in Auckland.

Key Responsibilities

• Establishing and sustaining strategic partnerships with industry, governmental bodies, and international collaborators.
• Spotting market needs and linking external demands with the University's research capabilities and infrastructure.
• Formulating compelling value propositions and engagement tactics that foster new partnerships and funded projects.
• Building and maintaining a robust pipeline of externally financed research initiatives contributing towards growth targets.
• Supporting Principal Investigators and Early Career Researchers to enhance industry connections and secure project funding.
• Collaborating across faculties and disciplines to develop cohesive responses to complex challenges and funding calls.
• Providing insights and intelligence on markets and sectors to guide research investment and identify growth opportunities.

Candidate Profile

• Demonstrated success in business development, account or partnership management roles with external stakeholders.
• A track record of managing senior relationships across sectors such as industry, government, research, or professional services.
• Strong commercial awareness enabling identification and advancement of opportunities to fruition.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and influence capabilities with diverse audience engagement.
• Aptitude for navigating complex stakeholder landscapes and aligning diverse parties toward shared objectives.
• Effective planning and organizational skills to juggle multiple priorities and projects.
• A proactive, resilient, and self-driven mindset with proven results delivery in dynamic environments.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications or comparable professional experience.
• Background in research, innovation, academia, government, or consulting and understanding of external research funding processes is advantageous.

Benefits and Working Conditions

• Permanent full-time role (40 hours/week, Monday to Friday) based in Auckland.
• Competitive salary ranging from $110,000 to $125,000 plus incentives and additional benefits, commensurate with experience.
• Five weeks of annual leave and up to 6.75% employer contribution to a superannuation scheme.
• Access to eye tests, glasses subsidies, discounts on health insurance and gym memberships.
• Recognition of long service and a culturally diverse, supportive workplace.
• Flexible working arrangements combining office and remote work options.
• Strong commitment to continuous professional development.

Additional Information

Two vacancies are available for this position. Candidates should submit their applications including a cover letter and CV by Friday 31 July 2026 through the official recruitment website. Queries may be addressed, however, applications via email will not be accepted.