Research & Development Manager

First Nations Fashion Design (FNFD)

Position:          Research & Development Manager 

Reports to:      FNFD Board of Directors  

Location:         Cairns (Negotiable)

Load:               Full-time, fixed term contract (Dec 2024)   

Salary:             $70,000 - $90,000 (dependant on experience)

About Us:

FNFD is an NFP Indigenous Corporation whose core business is in supporting the growth of the Indigenous Fashion sector. A national voice representing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members, creating ongoing access to opportunities, skill development and industry engagement. FNFD prides itself on delivering efficient, effective solutions across the ecology of the growing Indigenous Fashion Ecology. 

About the role:

We are seeking an enthusiastic and strategic Research and Development Manager to contribute to our mission to establish an impactful community space. The ideal candidate will play a key role in informing the design and development of a community hub for First Nations creatives through the identification of strategic partnerships, conducting market research, and implementing innovative business strategies. The position will report directly to the FNFD Board of Directors.

Key responsibilities of the role will include but are not limited to:

Business Development:

• Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including fashion brands, retailers, educational institutions, and government agencies.
• Collaborate with First Nations communities and organisations to create mutually beneficial opportunities for collaboration and support.
• Develop and implement business plans to expand the reach and impact of the hub, including initiatives for revenue generation and sustainability.
• Lead negotiations and manage contracts with external partners to ensure favourable terms and outcomes for the hub.
• Represent the hub at industry events, conferences, and meetings to raise awareness and build relationships with potential partners and stakeholders.

Research and Analysis:

• Conduct market research and analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and challenges within the fashion and creative industries, with a focus on First Nations representation.
• Stay abreast of industry developments, competitive landscape, and regulatory requirements to inform strategy and decision-making.
• Conduct research into studies and models nationally and internationally to assess effectiveness, collaboration and learning to inform the hub model.
• Consult with educations and service providers on a local, state and federal level to assess and evaluate effectiveness of curriculum delivery.

Planning and Reporting:

• Develop project plans, budgets, and timelines, and ensure timely and successful delivery of key milestones and objectives.
• Track and report on key performance indicators and metrics to measure the impact and effectiveness of business development efforts.

Community Consultation 

• Conduct community consultations to assess the level of interest in the hub, community member’s interests and possible partnerships.
• Collect data and feedback from hub participants and stakeholders to evaluate the effectiveness of programs and initiatives, their social impact and make data-driven recommendations for improvement.

Skills and Experience: 

The ideal applicant we are seeking will have:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in business, data/statistical or related business discipline or extensive relevant business experience.
• Outstanding analytical, strategic thinking and prioritisation skills.
• Well developed management and leadership skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills – ability to translate complex research into easy-to-action insights.
• Demonstrated experience in business development or service innovation role.
• Demonstrated project management experience.
• Strong collaborator with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience in or understanding of the NFP/Social Enterprise or Education and Training sectors desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 
• Ability to work autonomously or within a small team.

Key Performance Indicators

• Completion of operational plan which includes a road map toward three year funding.
• Identification of commercial income streams.
• Income generation through business partnerships or philanthropy.
• Development and implementation of the hub model and its financial model.
• Evidence of collaboration with key stakeholders.

Application Process:

If you are interested in contributing to the growth and success of First Nations fashion and design, please submit your CV, Cover Letter and responses to Skills and Experience via the APPLY button.