Manager Ag-Tech

The opportunity

As one of the world's leading grains research organisations, the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) plays an integral role in driving research outcomes and innovations that directly benefit the Australian grain industry. 

We are seeking a Manager to take a lead role in the identification, analysis, proposal development and procurement of investments that develop and/or enhance the application of enabling technologies in the grains industry, including (but is not limited to) Precision Agriculture and Smart Farming, remote and proximal sensing technologies for both practical farming and advanced research (e.g. Phenomics), and Biological Technologies such as biopesticides, biofertilizers, and bio stimulants aimed at improving plant health and soil productivity.

We require a person to:

• Oversee the development of robust R&D proposals that define return on investment, path to market and related technical and adoption risks and assumptions for investments. 
• Actively manage a portfolio of R&D investments, including for the timely delivery and quality of agreed milestones and outputs, adjustments in project approaches and/or repurposing resources to deliver higher impact outcomes.
• Provide specialist technical support and leadership to the broader GRDC investment management team in identifying opportunities for the deployment of enabling technologies that enhance return on investment across the GRDC portfolio. This includes for the areas of genetic improvement, crop protection, biosecurity, farming systems and agronomy and extension. 
• Maintain extensive networks within the Ag-Tech sector, including with commercial, grains industry, research, and government stakeholders. 
• Support planning and executing path to market strategies for the extension or commercialisation of project outputs. 
• Facilitate discussions with investment managers, researchers, grain growers and other stakeholders to deliver on GRDC’s Purpose, and;
• Identify communication opportunities for the corporate communications and digital publications teams as they arise.

About You:

The ideal candidate will have:

• Industry experience (5+ years) in related industries such as agricultural research, Ag-Tech, engineering or life science companies.
• Demonstrated experience in negotiation, facilitation and management of projects in a relevant industry (5+ years desirable). 
• Demonstrated ability to develop business cases for investment based on return to stakeholders/shareholders
• Proven understanding of commercial principles including finance, brand management, IP management, licensing and deal development
• Exposure to commercial issues and demonstrated commercial acumen. 
• Highly developed presentation, interpersonal and communication skills.
• An ability to work flexibly and adaptively in a complex environment with multiple stakeholders.

You must be prepared to travel interstate when required, hold a valid Australian Driver’s License and be willing to undergo all pre-employment medical checks.

How you will be rewarded for your valued contribution:

Known for its team culture the GRDC encourages and inspires excellence.  You will be welcomed as part of a high-performing forward-thinking team who thrive in a dynamic, flexible and autonomous work environment. You will receive a highly competitive remuneration package, performance-based pay and excellent opportunities for professional development.

Does this sound like you?

To apply for the position, write a one-page cover letter outlining why you are the best person for the role, and attach your most current CV.  

GRDC is committed to supporting an inclusive and diverse workforce and welcomes and encourages applications from People with Disability (PwD), First Nations peoples, LGBTIQA+ people, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds, mature age and young workers. GRDC will provide reasonable adjustments for candidates to participate equitably in the recruitment process and discuss workplace adjustments to fulfil the inherent requirements of the role.

For more information about working with GRDC, please visit https://grdc.com.au/about/careers