Associate Director, Business Development

Job Description:

Based in Portfolio of Research and Innovation

Full-time, 36-month fixed term contract

Make a meaningful impact on Adelaide University’s partnered research in Food, Agriculture and Wine

As an Associate Director, Business Development, you will lead and manage strategic business development to drive new funding opportunities, revenue generation and enhance Adelaide University’s reputation as the partner of choice across food, agriculture and wine research areas.

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters

This role will be responsible for managing and implementing strategic business development plans, revenue pipelines and industry engagement strategies, aligned to the University priorities.

You will coordinate stakeholder relationships across the University as well as industry and sector-specific partners, as well as facilitate the development and negotiations of major proposals, tenders and funding applications.

To succeed in this role, you will need a strong strategic and proactive mindset, driven by the desire to deliver impact.

Curious to learn more? Explore the full role description below to discover more about this opportunity.

The team

Visit the AU website to learn more about Research and Innovation Portfolio

Our people

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys variety and meeting new people. You will experience a range of responsibilities and interactions, keeping your workday interesting and engaging.

Ideal for those who appreciate a flexible and versatile work environment, and don’t mind changes to their routine.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:

• Experience developing and delivering strategic business development plans, commercial contracts and partnership programs.
• Experience communicating and engaging with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience building and managing relationships with industry, government and research collaborators, ideally in the agriculture, food or wine sector/s.
• Experience in financial analysis, contract management and risk assessment.
• Experience preparing and securing major proposals, bids and tenders for research funding and alliances.
• Proven ability leading high performance teams in business development or research translation.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Launch your future with Adelaide University now

Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:

• your current CV
• a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role

The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.

Submit your application by 11:30pm Wednesday 27 May 2026.

The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact us quoting the job number 493056.

Taryn Giles
Team Lead, Talent Acquisition
0883021700 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au

Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment.