"Senior Research Contracts Advisor"

Job Description:

• Full-time, Continuing Position
• Located at Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus
• $112,200 - $128,304 + 17% superannuation

About the position

The Senior Research Contracts Advisor plays a key leadership role in La Trobe’s Research and Industry Agreements Team by delivering efficient, high-quality client service and contracting support. This role is responsible for managing, and advising on, complex agreements across a range of research activities involving external funders and collaborators.

The role also includes identifying and responding to tenders, including the application of the University’s pricing framework, and leading the develop of agreement frameworks for major initiative grants. While not a formal people management role, the Senior Research Contracts Advisor is expected to provide leadership within the team, supporting capability development, and helping to drive improvement.

The role would suit applicants with a range of experience, including legal/contracting, post-award grant management, and/or business development.

Skills and Experience

To be considered for this position, you will have:

• A relevant degree or have equivalent knowledge and experience, with demonstrated expertise in the negotiation, development and management of complex research agreements with a range of clients and partners.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to negotiate, work with and influence senior management, and build professional relationships to drive outcomes.
• Experience developing innovative solutions and contributing to strategic planning and continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated organisation and problem-solving skills, with an ability to manage several different projects concurrently in a complex environment.
• Experience in the preparation of quotes, tender responses and/or research proposals (desirable).

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

PD-Senior Contracts Advisor.pdf

Benefits:

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

How to apply

Closing date: By 11:55pm Wednesday, 27 August 2025

Position Enquiries: Justin Manzano, Manager, Research Consulting and Contracts – j.manzano@latrobe.edu.au

Recruitment Enquiries: recruitment@latrobe.edu.au

Only candidates with Full Working Rights in Australia may apply for this position.

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

1. Cover letter, addressing the below selection criteria:

• Tell us why you're interested in this role and how your strengths align with what we're looking for?
• Provide an example that demonstrates your experience in a similar role or context?
• Tell us about a time you provided leadership or helped build capability within a team. What did you do to help improve how the team worked, and what was the impact?

1. An up-to-date resume

Please scroll down to apply.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We welcome and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

La Trobe University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We take an intersectional approach by actively supporting and encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to submit an application and aim to ensure that the recruitment and employee experience is as accessible and inclusive as possible. Flexibility in interview format will be offered to shortlisted candidates.

All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005. If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement.