Senior Development Manager

About us

The Bionics Institute is an internationally recognised, independent medical research institute that solves medical challenges with technology. We lead the world in the research and development of innovative medical devices and therapies to improve human health. Our multidisciplinary team comprises world-class scientists, engineers and researchers, and our laboratories are located in St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, close to our clinical collaborators.

Together we transform the lives of people with a range of conditions, including hearing impairment, Alzheimer's disease, Crohn's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, stroke, arthritis and diabetes.

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Development Manager – Major Gifts to play a pivotal role in driving philanthropic support for our groundbreaking work.

Reporting to the Head of Development, you will:

• Build and manage a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals, corporates, and private foundations.
• Develop tailored cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies to secure significant major gifts.
• Lead engaging donor experiences such as lab tours, researcher briefings, and exclusive events.
• Work closely with researchers, executives, board directors, and fundraising committees to maximise impact.
• Supervise and mentor team members, while deputising for the Head of Development when required.

This is a chance to directly influence our ability to fund research and deliver innovative solutions to some of the world's most pressing health challenges.

About You

You are a relationship-driven fundraising professional with:

• 5+ years' experience in major gift fundraising, ideally in health, research, or a related not-for-profit organisation.
• A proven track record of securing significant philanthropic revenue from major donors and corporates.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft and present compelling cases for support.
• Strong knowledge of donor engagement strategies, CRM systems, and philanthropic trends.
• Leadership skills to mentor staff and contribute strategically to a high-performing development team.

Experience in medical research fundraising and familiarity with Raiser's Edge are desirable but not essential.

The full position description is available on the Work with Us page of our website here.

Why Join Us?

At Bionics Institute, you'll be part of a team making a tangible difference in global health. We offer:

• Competitive salary with salary packaging of up to $18,550 per annum to increase your take home pay.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Annual performance bonus of up to 10% of annual salary.
• Ongoing professional development and mentorship.
• A collaborative, inclusive workplace that values diversity.

Ready to Apply?

If you believe you have the attributes to be an integral part of the team, please apply by submitting your CV and a brief cover letter (max 2 pages) that addresses the selection criteria in the position description.

Applications close 30 October at 11.59 pm however we may begin interviews before the closing date.

If you have further questions about this opportunity, please contact a member of our HR Team on 

All appointments are subject to the provision of a National Police Check and the sighting of evidence of legal right to work with no restrictions.

Note: We do not accept unsolicited agency applications and we are not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited CVs.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

As our research transforms the lives of people across all walks of life, we recognise that a diverse, engaged, and united team makes us stronger.

We therefore hire qualified people from all different backgrounds and experience levels. We encourage candidates to speak with a member of our HR team if you require adjustments to our recruitment process to support you, and the type of working arrangements that would help you thrive.