Manager, Awards (Post-Award Research Administration)

About the role

The Research Office supports the University of Queensland's research enterprise by partnering with researchers, faculties and professional teams to secure, establish and manage research funding. As Manager, Awards, you will lead a team delivering high-quality post-award research administration services across the university, combining strategic leadership with hands-on operational involvement. The role reports to the Senior Manager (Awards) and is currently based at the Toowong office, with occasional travel to other campuses and possible relocation to the St Lucia campus.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing Awards team delivering customer-focused post-award research administration services.
• Manage complex funding agreements and give specialist advice on research administration, compliance and contractual matters.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve operational processes, service delivery and resource allocation.
• Build relationships with internal and external stakeholders and contribute to strategic projects, policy development and governance.

Required profile

• Postgraduate qualification, or equivalent extensive experience in research administration, grants management, higher education, government, compliance, finance or another complex operational environment.
• Demonstrated experience leading, coaching and developing teams in a complex administrative, operational or compliance setting.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management, with the ability to influence, negotiate and advise trusted partners.
• Ability to manage competing priorities, coordinate high-volume workloads and deliver quality outcomes under tight deadlines.
• Experience driving continuous improvement, reviewing business processes and implementing practical solutions.

Required skills

• Analytical, problem-solving and communication skills, including interpreting policy, preparing reports and presenting complex information.
• Client-focused mindset, sound judgement and ability to balance strategic priorities with hands-on service delivery.

What we offer

• Salary in the range $120,317 - $134,892 (HEW 8) plus a super allowance of up to 17%.
• Flexible working options, health and wellbeing programs, a discounted study program for staff, on-campus childcare and salary packaging.

Applicants must submit a resume and a cover letter through the university's online application system; email applications are not accepted. Pre-employment checks may include right-to-work, education and criminal history checks, and unrestricted work rights in Australia are required. Applications close 8 November 2026.