Operions Director

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The Sax Institute is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that improves health and wellbeing by driving better use of evidence in policies, programs and services.

We have an international reputation as an Evidence Specialist, and nearly 20 years' experience in translating research findings into policy drawing on our own expertise as well as that of our more than 50 member organisations. We work with governments, health organisations and a network of experts nationwide to analyse policy problems and find the best evidence-based solutions.

Building on the success of the flagship 45 and Up study, the Institute is now launching 18 and Up; a groundbreaking national effort to establish the largest multigenerational cohort in Australia to uncover the drivers of Australia\'s declining mental health and rapidly translate findings to drive meaningful policy and practice change for current and future generations.

Funded by the NHMRC and delivered by the Sax Institute in collaboration with Australia's leading mental health researchers and policy partners, the study is supported by dedicated governance and advisory structures to drive engagement, co-design, and impact.

About the role

Joining 18 and Up at its inception, the Operations Director will be a driving force behind this landmark study. Working alongside the Scientific Director (Research Lead) and Head of Programs, you will turn vision into action - establishing the operational foundation of the study and ensuring its success for years to come.

You will lead across a diverse and critical portfolio including ethics and governance, recruitment and participant engagement, survey delivery, data management, stakeholder communications, and contract management.

In this central leadership role, you'll contribute to the Internal Management Forum and collaborate closely with the Scientific Advisory Group and Thematic Advisory Committees (Consumer and Community, Engagement and Data, Policy and Practice) as well as the Sax Institute's functions to ensure operations align seamlessly with strategy and research priorities. You'll also spearhead new operational partnerships with government agencies, research institutions, community organisations, and service providers - amplifying the study's reach and impact nationwide.

About you

Working with dedicated professionals, this exciting opportunity will suit an experienced operations leader with a proven track record in managing large-scale, multi-stakeholder research or health programs, ideally with national reach and complex governance arrangements.

You will be highly organised, strategic yet hands-on and skilled at building systems and processes from the ground up. Confident operating at the intersection of strategy and delivery, you thrive in complex environments and know how to bring people together to achieve shared goals.

Specifically, we are looking for a proactive and organised person with the following experience and current skill set:

• Significant experience managing the delivery of large-scale research or health programs with multi-institutional and national collaboration.
• Proven success in building and implementing operational systems and processes from the ground up.
• Demonstrated ability to work within and contribute to complex governance structures.
• Experience managing budgets, contracts, and procurement processes.
• High-level communication and negotiation skills with senior stakeholders.
• Understanding of research ethics, data governance, and participant engagement requirements
• Experience in delivering cohort / longitudinal studies and familiarity with NHMRC-funded research & governance requirements would be highly regarded.

If you are wanting to join the Institute to shape this significant research initiative, please go to the Careers Opportunities page of our website to read more about the position: https://www.saxinstitute.org.au/about-us/career-opportunities/.

To apply please send your CV and a cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria to jobs@saxinstitute.org.au with the subject heading: Operations Director – 18 and Up. Applications close Sunday, 21 September 2025

The Sax Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.