Manager – Operations and Transition Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA) The Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA) is seeking an experienced and highly capable manager to support organisational delivery, governance coordination, operational assurance and transition activities during the final phase of the CRCNA program. Working closely with the CEO, the Manager – Operations and Transition will provide senior oversight and coordination across research delivery, finance, risk, compliance, reporting, audit and contractual activities to support successful completion of CRCNA obligations and broader transition planning associated with the future Centre for Northern Australia (CNA). This is a unique opportunity to contribute to one of northern Australia’s most significant collaborative research and development initiatives during a strategically important period of organisational transition. About CRCNA The CRCNA is an industry-led research collaboration established under the Australian Government’s Cooperative Research Centres Program. Since 2017, CRCNA has invested in collaborative research, development and extension activities across northern Australia to support industry productivity, regional resilience and economic development. CRCNA’s portfolio spans agriculture, aquaculture, health, water, and First Nations led development, with strong emphasis on industry adoption, place-based innovation and practical outcomes. The organisation is now progressing through its final delivery and wind-up phase, with a continued focus on achieving contract obligations, legacy outcomes and long-term impact across northern Australia. Key responsibilities The Manager – Operations and Transition will: Provide operational oversight and delivery assurance across CRCNA programs and projects; Coordinate organisational reporting, compliance and operational activities; Support governance processes, including Board reporting cycles; Assist with financial oversight, audit coordination and end-of-operations forecasting; Monitor and escalate operational, financial and compliance risks; Support contract management, acquittals and project close-out activities; Coordinate operational inputs to Commonwealth reporting requirements; Support education and training program completion activities; Assist with organisational transition, asset management and wind-up processes; Work collaboratively with staff, contractors and external advisers to ensure continuity of operations and timely delivery of obligations. About you The successful applicant will demonstrate: Senior manager or senior advisory experience in operations, governance or program delivery; Strong understanding of Commonwealth-funded programs or similarly regulated environments; Demonstrated capability in financial oversight, compliance and risk management; Highly developed organisational and stakeholder management skills; Strong written communication and reporting capability; Ability to operate effectively in a complex, fast-moving and time-limited environment; Sound professional judgement and discretion. Experience working within CRCs, research organisations, universities, government-funded programs or transition environments will be highly regarded. Engagement details Fixed-term engagement through to 30 June 2027 Full-time role Townsville-based preferred Flexible arrangements may be considered for the right candidate Immediate commencement preferred Applications Applications should include: A brief cover letter; Current CV; and Availability details. For a confidential discussion regarding the role, contact Anthony Curro M: 0407 346 .
