About the role
Role type: Full-time, Fixed Term to September **** Faculty: Engineering and Information Technology Department/School: Computing and Information Systems Salary: Level D - $183,859 - $202,556 p.a. plus 17% super Strategic leadership role / Shape Defence research and innovation across Victoria and Tasmania / High-profile engagement with senior stakeholders Join DSI to lead collaborative Defence R&D;, connecting universities, industry and government to deliver national impact. Investing in you – 17% superannuation, benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities. The University of Melbourne We take pride in our people, who all contribute to our mission to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research. Discover more via our website. Your next career opportunity You will lead DSI's engagement and operations, shaping Defence innovation across Victoria and Tasmania. You will connect universities, industry and government, translating research into capability and driving multi-year strategic initiatives.
What you will deliver
Lead DSI's engagement strategy and day-to-day operations in partnership with the Director – Academic and Associate Director.
Design, deliver and refine funding programs that grow Defence-relevant R&D; and talent pipelines across partner universities.
Maintain up-to-date intelligence on Defence-focused research capability, matching universities and industry to national priorities and opportunities.
Cultivate senior relationships with governments, Defence and industry, representing DSI at missions, delegations and key events.
Secure and steward long-term funding, manage budgets, track KPIs and report to DSI's governance bodies.
You may be a great fit if you
Hold a PhD or equivalent experience in a Defence-relevant discipline or closely aligned industry sector.
Demonstrate a track record leading multi-year, large-scale projects within universities, Defence organisations or complex partnerships.
Excel at building trusted relationships with senior stakeholders across government, industry and university leadership, nationally and internationally.
Show success in securing or managing major funding for research or research-facilitation programs and initiatives.
Possess Australian citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain an NV1 security clearance and WWCC.
Display deep understanding of Defence innovation ecosystems, strategies and priorities, or readiness to rapidly develop this expertise.
For further information please refer to the attached PD.




What we offer you
Build future financial security with 17% superannuation
Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
Career development opportunities, including access to a range of tailored programs, such as Academic Women in Leadership, and learning platforms including LinkedIn Learning
Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance and well-being, including leading parental leave, gender affirmation leave, cultural leave, and menstruation and menopause leave.
Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance, and access to unique cultural and recreational benefits such as discounts for the Melbourne Theatre Company
Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program
For more information check out our benefits page!
Your new team – Defence Science Institute
You will join the Defence Science Institute, a joint University–Defence–Government centre hosted within FEIT. DSI links ten universities, Defence and industry to grow research, innovation, skills and jobs in Victoria and Tasmania. As part of the national ADSUN network, the team enables cross-State initiatives in Defence innovation, science and technology. You will work in a collaborative, mission-focused environment that values diversity, partnership and real-world impact.
Be Yourself
The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation.
The diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
Discover more about Diversity and Inclusion at UniMelb.
We're committed to a barrier-free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing adjustments throughout.
We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities. Learn more about how we support an accessible recruitment process.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants
We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians.




Visit our Indigenous staff page to learn more about our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with our Indigenous Employment & Development team at ******.
Applications and Contact
For queries related to this specific position, contact Toby Murray at ******
For questions related to our recruitment process email Nick Petersen at ******
For recruitment adjustments contact Kim Groizard on *************** or at ****** (subject: 'Recruitment Adjustments').
Applications close: Sunday 6 December *******:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.
Position Description: JR-****** - DSI Director - Engagement Position Description.pdf
JR-****** DSI Director - Engagement Position Description (Accessible).docx
Explore leadership opportunities
Explore leadership opportunities to shape the future and growth of the University of Melbourne - Executive Opportunities Welcome to the University of Melbourne – where our vision for positive societal change creates impact. Join our community of world‐class thinkers, where innovation thrives, and your ideas shape the future. At the University of Melbourne, your potential is our priority. Elevate your career, make a real difference, and be part of a diverse community that values your unique contribution. Your journey to skilled and personal growth starts here. Discover more at - / At the heart of our mission is a commitment to enriching society through education and research. Through our strategy "Advancing Melbourne," we're not just shaping our own future; we're shaping the future of the state, the nation, and our global community. Together, we propel Australia forward, positioning it as an ambitious, forward‐thinking leader on the world stage. Our staff play a key role in elevating Australia's reputation and influence globally. Your contributions are the driving force behind our ambition to be a leading force for positive change. Join us, and let's advance Melbourne – and the world – together. Discover more The University has committed to a strategic vision which aims to create a thriving, fair and diverse university community, working together respectfully to make a difference to each other and in the world. Join us on our journey to build a future where everyone in our community can feel a strong sense of belonging, and diverse perspectives fuel success. Discover more Want to know more about us, our processes, or future opportunities? We would love to connect with you! Get in touch with our friendly Talent Acquisition team at hr‐******
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📌 Director - Engagement, Defence Science Institute (Melbourne)
🏢 University of Melbourne Employees, Location, Alumni
📍 Melbourne