Business Development Manager

About the role

Desert Knowledge Australia (DKA), a statutory corporation of the Northern Territory focused on learning, research and sustainable development in deserts and arid lands, is seeking a Business Development Manager. The role identifies, secures and develops strategic business opportunities that strengthen DKA's financial sustainability, profile and impact, working closely with the CEO and project teams. It is part-time (0.6 FTE), fixed term until 30 June 2026, subject to funding, based at the Desert Knowledge Precinct in Mparntwe/Alice Springs with occasional remote and regional travel.

Key responsibilities

• Identify, assess and pursue new business opportunities and build a pipeline of funding, grant, tender and partnership opportunities
• Develop business cases, investment proposals and strategic initiatives, and lead the conversion of opportunities into funded projects and revenue streams
• Build relationships with government agencies, industry, research organisations, Aboriginal organisations and community groups, and represent DKA at meetings and events
• Prepare grant applications, tenders and funding proposals, and maintain a calendar of funding opportunities and deadlines
• Contribute to strategic planning, advise the CEO on opportunities and risks, and support the diversification of income streams
• Promote DKA's services, develop presentation materials and reports, and track stakeholder relationships and opportunities
• Support the transition of successful proposals into project initiation and delivery

Required profile

• Degree in Business, Commerce, Management, Economic or Regional Development, Public Policy, Community Development, Communications or a related discipline, or equivalent experience
• Postgraduate qualification desirable
• Extensive experience in project management, grant management, procurement, tendering or contract management
• Experience managing multiple competing priorities and meeting deadlines
• Ability to work respectfully with Aboriginal organisations and communities in remote and regional Australia
• Satisfactory National Police Check and completion of a conflict-of-interest declaration

Required skills

• Proven success securing grants, contracts, tenders or partnerships
• Strong relationship-building and written communication skills, including funding proposals and business cases
• Strategic thinking and ability to turn opportunities into funded projects or revenue-generating activities

Applications include a CV with at least two referees and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria, submitted through the DKA online application form by 27 October 2026. Salary is $120,877 to $130,039 plus superannuation (pro-rata).