Positions

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The South Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) works to advance the prosperity and sustainability of the State’s primary industries and regional communities.  As a division of PIRSA, the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) plays a vital role in delivering innovative research, products, services and technologies for primary industries, sustainable foods and agribusiness sectors in SA and nationally.  SARDI is one of Australia’s leading applied research institutes and, for more than 25 years, has provided its stakeholders with innovative, world-leading research and development solutions.  SARDI’s Aquatic Sciences division works with industry partners, universities, and government agencies to undertake research and development that advances the sustainable growth of South Australia’s seafood industry, protects aquatic ecosystems, and informs government policy. 

Reporting to the SARDI Executive Director and as a member of the Senior Management Team, this pivotal role leads the Aquatic Sciences division (circa 100 staff) in developing and maintaining quality science and technology capabilities within the division’s budget and in accordance with the organisation’s strategic objectives.  Key accountabilities include:

• overseeing the performance of the Aquatic Sciences division across its metropolitan and regional sites, including its coastal research vessel;
• ensuring research outputs meet government, PIRSA, and stakeholder expectations;
• developing and fostering collaborative and strategic partnerships with stakeholders at international, national, statewide levels;
• identifying new research, development and commercialisation opportunities and funding sources;
• leading, managing, motivating and developing Program Leaders and the wider Aquatic Sciences team;
• providing sound and timely advice, support, and briefings to PIRSA executives and Minister.

Applications are invited from senior aquatic science professionals who have extensive subject knowledge, a track record of innovation, and are acknowledged as leaders in their field.  Strong leadership and people development skills will be required along with the ability to build effective working relationships, networks and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.  Strategic and visionary thinking abilities, emotional intelligence, resilience, sound judgment, and strong influencing and problem-solving skills are important. 

Make an enquiry to explore this unique opportunity to join a highly respected and impactful research entity providing vital applied science services to the South Australian community and beyond.