Ecosystem Development Manager

About this role

The Opportunity The Ecosystem Development Manager plays a critical role in fostering collaborative defence-relevant research and development across South Australia. Working within the Defence Innovation Partnership, the role is responsible for increasing the translation and commercialisation outcomes of research initiatives by connecting project teams with industry partners, funding opportunities and end users. The role leads strategic initiatives that grow the South Australian defence and national security research and development ecosystem, including opportunities in defence test and evaluation, innovation programs and international engagement. The position works closely with researchers, industry, Defence stakeholders and government agencies to facilitate collaboration and identify pathways to maximise research impact. About Us Defence SA is a key economic development agency within the South Australian Government focussed on defence industry development. The Chief Executive of Defence SA is also the Chief Executive of Veterans SA and the South Australian Space Industry Centre. Collectively, the agency advocates and supports the defence and space industry and veterans within South Australia. The Defence Innovation Partnership is a collaborative initiative of Defence SA, Defence Science and Technology Group and the South Australian Universities, and connects government, industry and research organisations to deliver defence-relevant innovation and strengthen South Australia's research and development ecosystem. Benefits Defence SA is a small and agile agency which provides employees with challenging and rewarding work and great opportunities for learning and development and flexibility. Role Purpose/Context: Reporting to the Director, Defence Innovation Partnership, the Ecosystem Development Manager is responsible for developing growth opportunities across South Australia's defence and national security research and development sector. The role leads strategies and initiatives that increase research translation and commercialisation outcomes and supports collaboration between industry, academia, government and Defence stakeholders. Key responsibilities include: • Leading strategic initiatives that support growth in the defence and national security R&D ecosystem. • Facilitating co-design activities and supporting proposal development across DIP funding programs. • Working closely with project teams to identify translation, commercialisation and funding opportunities. • Building and maintaining relationships with industry, academia, government agencies and international stakeholders. • Providing strategic advice based on analysis of defence, technology and innovation trends. Key selection criteria: • Comprehensive knowledge of defence, technology or adjacent industry research and development ecosystems. • Demonstrated experience engaging with scientific and technical concepts and communicating effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences. • Experience building and maintaining professional networks across industry, government or research sectors. • Demonstrated ability to influence strategic thinking and provide high-level advice to research, development and innovation stakeholders. • Experience planning, leading and managing strategies and programs that support research translation and commercialisation. • Experience managing projects, programs or casework in research, innovation or related environments. • Highly developed written and verbal communication skills. • Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and work independently under broad direction. • Ability to work collaboratively and contribute to shared organisational goals. • Demonstrated strategic thinking and ability to develop operational plans aligned to organisational objectives. Our Commitment to Diversity The South Australian Government is committed to building a flexible, diverse and inclusive culture, planning for and promoting diversity. We welcome and encourage applications from diverse community groups and ages including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, LGBTIQ, people with disabilities, women and other diversity groups. Special Conditions This is a contract / term vacancy up to 30 June 2029. The incumbent is required to enter into a performance agreement. Work outside of normal hours will be required and the position may require interstate travel involving overnight absences. Essential Qualifications and Requirements • Appropriate tertiary qualifications in innovation management, project management, or related fields. • The successful applicant must be eligible to obtain and maintain an Australian Government security clearance. Enquiries Phone: Sumen Rai Director Defence Innovation Partnership, 0438 815 365 Email: DefenceSA.Enquiries@defencesa.com Application requirements All applications must be submitted online via www.defencesa.com/careers . If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit your resume, together with a Covering Letter (no more than two pages) outlining your skills and experience giving consideration to the key selection criteria and the experience and skills listed in the role description. Applicants must include the contact information of at least two referees with one being your immediate supervisor/manager and a completed “Pre-Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector” form. --> -->