Project Manager - Strategic Projects

The Opportunity

The Faculty of Engineering at UNSW has an exciting opportunity for a Project Manager, Strategic Projects to play a key role in driving strategic initiatives and organisational transformation across one of Australia’s leading engineering faculties. Working closely with Faculty and School leadership, this position will provide oversight of a diverse portfolio of projects and programs, ensuring alignment with Faculty and University priorities while delivering measurable impact across research, innovation and operational excellence.

This role will lead the establishment of a fit-for-purpose Project Management Office (PMO) within the Faculty Research Office, developing governance frameworks, project delivery standards and prioritisation methodologies that support the successful execution of strategic initiatives.

The successful candidate will be a strategic and collaborative project management professional with strong experience in governance, stakeholder engagement and project delivery. You will be adept at navigating complex environments, building effective relationships and driving initiatives that deliver meaningful organisational outcomes. Experience working within a university, research, innovation or technology-focused setting, together with an understanding of project delivery frameworks and organisational transformation, will be highly regarded.

This role reports to the Deputy Dean (Industry Engagement, Innovation and Research) and has no direct report.

• Salary, Level 9 - $148,012 to $157,055 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full time
• Fixed term – 24 months
• Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia
• Flexible working options

Skills & Experience

• Relevant tertiary qualification with subsequent relevant experience or equivalent competence gained through any combination of education, training and experience.
• An understanding of the nature of research and its translation and how it is undertaken in a university environment.
• Proven project management experience with a track record of managing projects through to completion.
• An in-depth understanding of the project life cycle, governance frameworks and strategic development of project plans, objectives, and documentation, in particular in the context of research and new technology development.
• Excellent consultation, influencing and negotiation skills and proven ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders to achieve successful outcomes.
• Demonstrated strong analytical and problem-solving skills and proven capacity to exercise initiative, flexibility and to be proactive in development of robust solutions to problems.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail for deliverables produced.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Demonstrated success working effectively and collaboratively on initiatives with a range of people at different levels within an organisation.
• Knowledge of budgeting and resource allocation procedures.
• Excellent time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to respond to changing priorities, manage multiple tasks and meet competing deadlines by using judgement and initiative.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health & safety (psychosocial and physical) responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.