Business Development Manager (Christchurch)

About the team

The University of Otago is a research-focused institution with a long tradition of scholarship dating back to 1869. Its Research and Enterprise Office helps researchers identify funding sources, form industry partnerships, prepare grant applications, and create research contracts.

The team partners with academic staff, students, the health sector, and Otago Innovation Ltd to encourage collaboration and commercial thinking. In Christchurch, the focus is especially strong on clinical trials, translational research, and engagement with industry in biomedical science, biotechnology, and medical device innovation. This work is supported by the new Wai-Ora campus building within the Te Papa Hauora/Health Precinct, designed to strengthen collaboration, education, and clinical engagement.

Role overview

This Business Development Manager position is responsible for promoting the university’s research activity, building strategic external relationships, and creating opportunities that increase research income and strengthen the university’s reputation as a leading research institution.

The role places particular emphasis on clinical trials and translational health research, with regular interaction across pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device sectors. It involves developing a pipeline of opportunities, supporting feasibility assessments, negotiating contracts, and maintaining long-term relationships with sponsors and partners.

You will work closely with clinical investigators, health system partners, and internal research support teams to help position the University of Otago as a preferred location for clinical trial activity.

What we are looking for

The ideal candidate will be PhD qualified, or bring equivalent professional experience, and have a strong grasp of university research activity and funding models.

You should also bring strong commercial and business development capability, especially in negotiation, relationship management, and contracting, together with experience in identifying and securing opportunities in clinical trials, biomedical science, biotechnology, and/or medical devices.

Success in the role will require the ability to turn leads into funded research or clinical trial work, understand clinical trial processes and feasibility assessment, and be familiar with the New Zealand health research environment. Knowledge of clinical trial management in New Zealand, including awareness of NZACRes and its role in supporting best practice and collaboration, is also important.

You will need to manage multiple projects, stakeholders, and clients at once, communicate clearly in writing and speaking, and work tactfully with researchers, clinicians, and industry partners. The role also calls for cultural awareness and a strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and equitable research engagement, along with advanced analytical and problem-solving ability.

We are looking for a self-driven person who can work independently, take initiative, deliver outcomes in a complex setting, and contribute well in a collaborative team environment.

Position details

This is a permanent part-time role based in Christchurch, with working hours of 18.75 per week.

The appointment salary band is $107,320 to $115,834, with a top rate of $124,348 pro rata.

You must already have the right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered.

Rewards and benefits

The university offers pro rata competitive pay, five weeks of annual leave pro rata, a 6.75% superannuation contribution, and the opportunity for genuine work-life balance.

Application details

To apply, submit a CV and cover letter and quote reference number 2601020. Applications close on Sunday, 19 July 2026, and may be assessed as they are received. The university may also close the vacancy earlier if needed.

Additional information

For further details or a confidential discussion about the role, contact Dr. Samuel Heenan using the contact information provided by the employer.