Deputy Chief Officer - Growth and Partnerships

Australian Institute of Marine Science – Canberra ACT

The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) is seeking an outstanding executive leader to take on the role of Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Growth and Partnerships). This is an exceptional executive chance to drive strategic partnerships, sustainable growth and national impact at one of Australia's most respected scientific institutions.

As Australia's leading tropical marine research agency, AIMS delivers the science that supports the sustainable management and protection of our marine environment. From Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, across northern Australia, to the Great Barrier Reef, AIMS' research addresses some of the most complex environmental challenges facing tropical marine ecosystems, helping governments, industries and communities make informed decisions for the future.

AIMS has recently launched its ambitious Strategy 2040, setting a bold direction for the organisation's future impact, capability and contribution to safeguarding tropical marine ecosystems in a rapidly changing world. The opportunity to help shape and deliver the next phase of this strategy will be particularly attractive to leaders motivated by influence, innovation and meaningful impact.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, Deputy CEO (Growth and Partnerships) will be responsible for developing and implementing a new AIMS’ global growth and partnerships strategy, driving a cohesive approach to the promotion of marine science and research across AIMS. They will provide leadership and oversight of AIMS’ international partnerships and initiatives and facilitate AIMS’ continued growth by building a sustainable pipeline of research partnership opportunities.

Location: There is preference for the Deputy CEO (Growth & Partnerships) position to be located in Townsville (QLD), but applications will be considered for candidates based in Perth (WA),



Darwin (NT) or Canberra (ACT).

The successful candidate will be an accomplished executive leader with a track record of driving organisational growth, building strategic partnerships and enhancing institutional impact within complex organisations. You will bring significant experience developing and implementing strategies that drive growth, increase revenue and expand partnerships across government, industry, philanthropy and the research sector. As a skilled relationship builder and influential ambassador, you will have a demonstrated ability to represent organisations at the highest levels, cultivate trusted partnerships and identify opportunities that deliver long-term value and impact.

You will also possess a strong understanding of government, industry and university ecosystems, with experience navigating complex stakeholder environments and translating organisational priorities into meaningful external engagement outcomes. Experience securing research funding, diversifying revenue streams and developing philanthropic relationships will be highly regarded, alongside a proven ability to lead national and international collaborations.

AIMS acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia's first scientists. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past, present and future, and the custodians of the land and sea Country on which we work.

AIMS is a world leader in tropical marine science and conducts research supporting environmental sustainability and economic growth in Australia’s tropical oceans. Through our highly skilled and innovative staff, state-of-the-art infrastructure, strong national and international collaborative relationships and valued technical support, we are helping to build Australia’s national marine science capability so that together we can meet the challenges facing our marine estate. The Institute operates from facilities in Townsville Queensland, Darwin Northern Territory and Perth Western Australia.

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📌 Deputy Chief Officer - Growth and Partnerships (Canberra)
🏢 Australian Institute of Marine Science
📍 Canberra