Program Operations Manager

Job Title

Program Operations Manager - NextGen DC1 Immunotherapy

Job Description

An excellent opportunity is available for a Program Operations Manager to join the Immunology Division at Australia’s pre-eminent biomedical research institute.

About the Position

The NextGen DC1 Immunotherapy Program is a ground-breaking five-year initiative funded through the MRFF Frontier Health and Medical Research Opportunity. Led by WEHI in collaboration with the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Monash University, and Mater Research (University of Queensland), the program is developing a novel immunotherapy based on type 1 conventional dendritic cells (DC1s) to transform treatment options for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.

As Program Operations Manager, you will work closely with the Program Director and play a pivotal leadership role in operationalising this ambitious research program. You will be responsible for providing strategic and operational guidance, managing partnerships, overseeing program design and governance structures, and ensuring successful delivery of clinical trial milestones. The role involves significant engagement with collaborators, funders, and external stakeholders including those in the biotech/pharma sector.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the success of a high-impact, translational research program at the intersection of immunotherapy innovation, clinical translation, and operational excellence

Selection Criteria

Specialist experience and qualifications:
- Relevant experience in a similar role with demonstrated experience in operational management capabilities- Tertiary qualification in life sciences- Experience in management within biotech or pharma related to cell therapies (desirable)- Post-graduation qualification in business management or other relevant field (desirable)

Desirable Knowledge and Skills:
- Team building - Inspirational leadership with a track record of building cohesive teams and fostering individual growth and development- Strategic alignment - Results-oriented mindset with attention to detail, while maintaining a focus on broader strategic objectives- Governance - Sound understanding of governance frameworks and experience in designing and implementing operating models- Operational design - Proven expertise in developing and implementing systems and processes across functions such as contract management, funding allocation, workforce planning, infrastructure planning, and business development- Sector awareness - Strong awareness of sector trends, challenges, and opportunities, with the ability to leverage insights to advance program goals

Personal Qualities:
- Persuasion and negotiation - Demonstrated ability to secure support and reach agreements without compromising relationships; strong active listening skills; ability to present options and tailor messaging to suit audience and purpose- Interpersonal skills - Highly developed interpersonal and communication abilities; open, direct, and diplomatic approach; proven capacity to build collaborative relationships with multidisciplinary teams and diverse stakeholders- Cognitive skills - Strong problem-solving capabilities with a demonstrated ability to implement innovative improvements

Terms of Appointment

This position is available for five years in a full-time capacity. Salary is Research Support Employee Level 9 ($133,763 - $144,791). Up to 17% superannuation and very attractive salary packaging options are available.

General enquiries can be directed to Professor Stephen Nutt

A position description is available

here


How to Apply

Application Closing Date: Thursday 5 June 2025