Manager Research Proposal and Development

Manager, Research Proposal and Development
Sydney Water is seeking a dynamic and experienced Research Proposal and Development Manager to lead and support the end-to-end delivery of research projects across our organisation.

This leadership role will provide support and enable the develop of research projects that deliver outcomes in areas such as environmental protection, water quality, resource recovery, circular economy. Carbon net zero and asset management. You will champion the integration of research into practice, ensuring that insights are translated into real world solutions.

You will lead a small, agile team within the Research & Innovation (R&I) function, enabling and supporting research projects across the business. Our ideal candidate will be highly experienced in research development, with a proven track record of working collaboratively to scope, manage, and deliver research projects that create value for our organisation.

You should also have experience in stakeholder engagement, writing grant application, IP negotiations and research proposal assessment and lead research projects and programs that deliver measurable results.

About The Role
Research Management:
Support the end-to-end delivery of research projects and programs, including problem identification, project design and scoping, governance and reporting, stakeholder management, and implementation.

Project and Program Leadership:
Manage the full lifecycle of research initiatives, from challenge identification to design, implementation, deployment, and stakeholder management.

Project Management:
Enable and oversee project scope, timelines, quality, cost, resources, and risk. Ensure projects stay on track, escalate when necessary, and deliver measurable results.

Monitoring and Reporting:
Track key performance indicators (KPIs), such as deliverables, timelines, budget, return on investment, issues, and risk mitigation. Provide regular updates via dashboards and reports.

Stakeholder Engagement:
Identify, manage, and communicate with key internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and successful project delivery.

Procurement and Tendering:
Lead competitive procurement processes and manage project requisitions to support project goals.

Collaboration and Integration:
Work closely with internal teams to enable robust research outcomes and promote their integration into existing operations.

External Partnerships:
Manage partnerships with external collaborators, including universities, government agencies, and industry experts. Leverage research investments to explore funding opportunities.

Commercialisation and IP:
Identify and advocate for opportunities to commercialise research and innovation outcomes, contributing to Sydney Water's growth and success. Ensure appropriate management and protection of IP.

About You

• Degree in relevant field such as science, environment, engineering, technology, innovation management, business or commercialisation or other related fields.
• Demonstrated extensive experience in research proposal development, research management or R&D leadership roles.
• Proven ability to translate complex technical challenges into structured research or innovation programs.
• Technical expertise in research and development, technology, and innovation, with the ability to guide technical direction and priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to translate research outcomes into business-as-usual practices, ensuring operational integration and value realisation.
• Experience in intellectual property management and/or technology commercialisation is desirable, with the ability to identify and advocate for opportunities that support the organisation.
• Proven ability to engage and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including academic, government and industry partners.

Please see the position description for the role's full accountabilities. For any additional questions please reach out to

– Application closing date is Friday 12th
Research shows that women and people of colour are less likely to apply for roles if they don't meet every qualification. If, after reading this, you're not sure you tick every single criteria box, but have the passion to get behind our purpose, the determination to face a challenge and a willingness to grow and learn, we think you should click that apply button anyway. We're passionate about building a diverse and inclusive team, and love hearing from people like you.
Why Join Us?
Dive Into Our Great Benefits
Meaningful Work:
Work on projects that make a tangible impact on communities, join us in shaping the future of Infrastructure in NSW.

Competitive Remuneration
: We'll ensure that your skills and contributions are valued and rewarded appropriately.

Hybrid Work Environment
: We offer a hybrid work model that balances remote work and office collaboration, supporting our team's productivity and well-being.

Continuous Professional Growth:
We will invest in your career with leadership and development programs to propel your success.

24/7 Wellbeing Support:
Access for you and your family to free and confidential mental health and general health support through our EAP portal.

Discounted Private Health Insurance:
Unlock affordable access to top-tier health coverage with our discounted insurance plans.

Family First:
Prioritise your family with up to 18 weeks of fully paid parental leave and a childcare allowance.

Fitness Passport:
Achieve your physical fitness goals using our Fitness Passport, granting you access to a multitude of gyms and pools across NSW.

Novated Leasing:
Get in the driver's seat of your financial future with our novated lease options.

Please note as part of the application process, you will be asked to undergo background checks which includes a criminal history check and a medical assessment either online or in person. You must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident at the time of submitting your application to be considered for this role.