Manager National Variety Trials (Nvt) Operations

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 – National Variety Trials (NVT) Operations. This role will manage the NVT program which is one of GRDC’s largest and most visible RD&E initiatives.  

The role can be based in either Canberra, Adelaide, Perth, Toowoomba or Horsham and will be based on the location of the successful candidate.

We require a person to:

• Centrally manage engagement with stakeholder participants of the NVT program. Stakeholder participants include:
  • commercial breeding company participants
  • Program Service Providers
  • NVT Advisory Committees and other public or GRDC groups providing input to NVT
• Proactively identify project issues and appropriately manage them to the satisfaction of stakeholders while still aligned with GRDC interests and NVT’s purpose.

Coordinate seasonal NVT operational activities, such as;

• Formal and informal stakeholder engagement with growers, trial service providers, breeders, biometricians, researchers and industry bodies. Engagement may include coordinating annual stakeholder meetings including setting of the agenda and delivery of messaging, contract management, stakeholder consultation processes, and ongoing communications.
• Pre-commercial variety nominations – preparation and distribution of the NVT Nomination Information, facilitating seed delivery including key documents and seed lot information, and financial management.
• Research Seed Multiplication –contract management, seed production targets, grain quality testing and seed distribution.

About You:

The ideal candidate will have:

• Demonstrated industry experience in a relevant field (i.e. Agricultural Account Management, Operations, Stakeholder relations, Trial Management, crop research, plant breeding or agronomy).
• Demonstrated experience in contract/project negotiation, facilitation and management in a relevant industry (5+ years’ desirable). 
• Proven experience in negotiating and facilitating outcomes that deliver benefits to growers.
• 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