"Program Manager, Eagleworks Innovation Centre"

Job Description:

• Shape a distinct ‘Eagleworks Experience’ by delivering a high‑impact mix of innovation and entrepreneurship programs
• Evolve an engaging program portfolio that adds clear value for stakeholders and strengthens the Eagleworks community
• Full Time/2 Year Fixed Term Appointment/Bundoora Campus/Attractive remuneration package

About the position

Eagleworks Innovation Centre at La Trobe University, located in the Jenny Graves Building at the heart of the Bundoora campus, is a flagship initiative designed to consolidate and amplify the university’s innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry engagement capabilities.

The purpose of the Eagleworks Innovation Centre is to position La Trobe University as a national leader in innovation by creating a vibrant, accessible, and integrated ecosystem that enhances visibility, fosters collaboration, and supports programs driving economic and societal impact

Reporting to the Director, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and working closely with teams across the Research and Industry Engagement portfolio, the role drives the delivery of the programs and the ‘Eagleworks Ecosystem’. This involves extensive ecosystem engagement, growth and collaboration, working with internal stakeholders (e.g. events, media and communications, research and student support teams, La Trobe Schools, researchers and innovators) and external stakeholders (e.g. alumni, industry, start-ups, community and partner organisations) to support the Eagleworks mission of fostering a vibrant community of startups, corporates, and student and researcher innovators driving innovation and impact

The Program Manager, Eagleworks Innovation Centre, will be instrumental in shaping the ‘Eagleworks Experience’, ensuring the offering adds value for stakeholders and is distinct in the market, drawing on a differentiated and evolving portfolio of innovation and entrepreneurship engagement and enablement programs, ranging from networking events to co-curricular workshops and sprints to structured entrepreneurship education, start-up accelerator and commercialisation programmes.

Duties at this level:

• Support the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Industry Engagement, and IE Directors to define and develop Eagleworks Innovation Centre strategy & activation plan;
• Work with the Industry Engagement Pro-Vice Chancellor and IE Directors and Senior BD Manager Innovation & Entrepreneurship for a strong alumni and Industry engagement in Eagleworks Innovation Programs

Essential Criteria

Experience of working in innovation ecosystems

• Direct experience working within and understanding of innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems and enabling strategies, programs and toolkits.
• Strong understanding and experience of research translation with a focus on practical pathways including through knowledge exchange, stakeholder engagement and strategic partnership building.

Professional relationship building

• A demonstrated passion for building and nurturing strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, and strong interpersonal skills including ability to negotiate, motivate, influence and build relationships.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for content creation and community engagement.

Adaptability and organisational skills

• A growth mindset, with a demonstrated ability to adapt to evolving community needs and technological advancements including use of AI and other digital platforms.
• Strong project management, time management, and multitasking abilities.
• Ability to manage operational logistics for programs and event development, including coordinating production and venue management.

Other skills and knowledge required for the position

• A degree, extensive management expertise and supporting experience, or postgraduate qualifications and extensive relevant experience, or an equivalent alternate combination of relevant knowledge, training and/or experience.
• Demonstrated experience working with and influencing senior management.

*Please refer to the Position Description for other duties, skills and experience required for this position.*

Benefits

• 17% employer contributed superannuation
• On site childcare facilities
• Flexible work arrangements
• Discounts for staff and their family members to study a range of La Trobe courses

How to apply

*Please note, only candidates who currently possess full rights to work in Australia will be eligible to be considered for this appointment*.

Closing date: Sunday 15th February, 2026 at 11:55pm

Position Enquiries: Dr Cerasela Tanasescu, Director, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Email: C.Tanasescu@latrobe.edu.au

Recruitment Enquiries: Vicki Stavrou, Senior Talent Partner, Strategy and Senior Appointments Email: v.stavrou@latrobe.edu.au

Please submit an online application ONLY and include the following documents:

• Cover letter addressing your suitability for the role and;
• An up-to-date resume.