We’re hiring: Business Development Manager
The NSW Smart Sensing Network is seeking a Business Development Manager to lead the strategic business development for the NSSN’s Net Zero theme.
As Business Development Manager, you will build and manage high‑value partnerships with government and industry and converting these into commissioned projects and commercialised research outcomes.
The role works closely with theme leaders, researchers, and university stakeholders to manage the network's business development pipeline, analyse performance data, and improve processes. It requires strong autonomy, influence, and innovation ecosystem expertise to drive impact across NSW universities.
This position is based in the School of Physics at the University of Sydney’s Camperdown Campus, but will build relationships across all schools in the faculty, other relevant faculties as well as universities across NSW & the ACT.
About the role
Full time 1-year fixed term opportunity contract with opportunity to extend.
Lead high‑impact partnerships transforming Net Zero research into real‑world solutions across government, industry, and academia
Base Salary (HEO9) $146,197 - $154,260 + 17% superannuation
Key responsibilities
lead the strategic development of the NSSN Net Zero theme in line with industry trends and funding opportunities
identify and secure contract research and commercialisation opportunities across a multi‑university network
build and manage high‑value partnerships with government, industry, and end‑users
facilitate collaboration between researchers and external partners to drive research translation
provide strategic advice to network leadership on business development and engagement strategy
manage business development data, reporting, CRM systems, and commercialisation processes.
About you
The University of Sydney values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. As such, we see the importance of recruiting talent aligned to these values and are looking for a Business Development Manager who has:
5+ years of experience working in the higher education or research sector
extensive experience in business development or stakeholder engagement
experience managing, utilising and analysing CRM systems (particularly HubSpot)
experience and professional networks in the net zero sector are highly desirable
demonstrated ability to prioritise workload and manage multiple client groups to meet deadlines and manage competing demands
excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
demonstrated experience in preparing and delivering successful proposals, tenders and presentations
high-level representation and negotiations skills including the ability to secure formal and informal agreements
digital literacy to support communication, reporting and monitoring of business development activities
excellent critical thinking and decision making.
Learn more and apply
Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button.
For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Chris Masaoka, Recruitment Operations by email to recruitment.sea@sydney.edu.au.
Applications Close - Wednesday 08 April 2026 11:59 PM