Head of Research
Head of Research
Posted
04-Jul-2025
Location
Sydney - CBD, Inner West & Eastern Suburbs
Sector
Charities
Salary
Work Type
Permanent
Reference
3933825
Head of Research
ABOUT THE NATIONAL BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION
The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is Australia's leading not-for-profit organisation funding world-class breast cancer research towards our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
Since our inception in 1994, NBCF has invested over $200 million into more than 600 world-class research projects across Australia. In this time, death rate from breast cancer in Australia has reduced by 40%.
We've seen remarkable results, but the job's not done.
At NBCF, we’re determined to create a better tomorrow. We know research matters, and it is central and critical to improving breast cancer outcomes. That’s why, our pioneering Pink Horizon Research Strategy supports a diverse yet connected portfolio of research at a scale of investment that matches the boldness of our vision.
With a highly talented and committed team, and an enviable reputation, NBCF is well positioned to achieve even greater outcomes over the coming years and change the future for all those diagnosed with breast cancer, and we would love you to join us.
Find out more here: https://nbcf.org.au/research-strategy/
About the Role
We’re excited to offer a newly created leadership opportunity at NBCF, Head of Research, a pivotal role within our Research Division focused on delivering the operational implementation of the Pink Horizon Research Strategy.
Reporting to the Executive Director, Research, you will be responsible for translating strategic priorities into effective, transparent, and impactful research operations. You’ll lead the execution of annual operating plans, manage delivery of high-impact grant schemes, strengthen division governance and risk frameworks, while fostering innovation, and building a collaborative, high-performing team culture.
Key Responsibilities
About the successful candidate
You’re an experienced, dynamic, and collaborative leader with a strong background in health or medical research. You have demonstrated success in leading teams, delivering complex initiatives, and translating strategic priorities into impactful outcomes. If you’re committed to driving excellence in research operations through continuous improvement and innovation, this is your chance to be part of something truly meaningful.
How to Apply
To be considered for this position please apply now with your resume and a tailored cover letter directly through the advertisement. If you have any further questions, please contact Diana Linde at diana@beaumontpeople.com.au.
Applications will be assessed as they are received.
At Beaumont People we believe a diverse workplace is a happy workplace, and we love working with organisations that feel the same way. We encourage applications from people of all different backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from CALD backgrounds and people with disabilities.
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital or parental status. Should you require a reasonable accommodation to be made for your application to be assessed we would be more than happy to discuss how that can be arranged.
- The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is Australia's leading not-for-profit organisation funding world-class breast cancer research towards our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
- Step into a newly created leadership role as Head of Research, working closely with a visionary Executive Director to deliver NBCF’s ambitious Pink Horizon Research Strategy.
- Hybrid work environment, NFP salary packaging, and an opportunity to work with a passionate team in a mission-driven organisation.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION
The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is Australia's leading not-for-profit organisation funding world-class breast cancer research towards our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.
Since our inception in 1994, NBCF has invested over $200 million into more than 600 world-class research projects across Australia. In this time, death rate from breast cancer in Australia has reduced by 40%.
We've seen remarkable results, but the job's not done.
At NBCF, we’re determined to create a better tomorrow. We know research matters, and it is central and critical to improving breast cancer outcomes. That’s why, our pioneering Pink Horizon Research Strategy supports a diverse yet connected portfolio of research at a scale of investment that matches the boldness of our vision.
With a highly talented and committed team, and an enviable reputation, NBCF is well positioned to achieve even greater outcomes over the coming years and change the future for all those diagnosed with breast cancer, and we would love you to join us.
Find out more here: https://nbcf.org.au/research-strategy/
About the Role
We’re excited to offer a newly created leadership opportunity at NBCF, Head of Research, a pivotal role within our Research Division focused on delivering the operational implementation of the Pink Horizon Research Strategy.
Reporting to the Executive Director, Research, you will be responsible for translating strategic priorities into effective, transparent, and impactful research operations. You’ll lead the execution of annual operating plans, manage delivery of high-impact grant schemes, strengthen division governance and risk frameworks, while fostering innovation, and building a collaborative, high-performing team culture.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the operational implementation of NBCF’s research strategy, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
- Manage a small team of direct reports in the NBCF Research Division, inspiring a high-performing, collaborative, and inclusive team culture.
- Coordinate the successful delivery of NBCF grant schemes and strategic research initiatives, ensuring efficient execution and cross-team alignment.
- Manage implementation of annual operating plans, team performance, and workload planning, and contribute to strategic planning and reporting.
- Drive continuous improvement across systems, data, and processes to enhance strategic decision-making and accountability.
- Strengthen governance and risk management frameworks across the division.
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure seamless research delivery and strategic alignment.
- Contribute to the preparation of reports and papers for the Research Advisory Committee, Consumer Advisory Panel, Grant Review Committees, and Board, aligned with strategic priorities.
- Support strategic communications, reporting, and policy submissions that showcase NBCF’s research leadership and impact.
About the successful candidate
You’re an experienced, dynamic, and collaborative leader with a strong background in health or medical research. You have demonstrated success in leading teams, delivering complex initiatives, and translating strategic priorities into impactful outcomes. If you’re committed to driving excellence in research operations through continuous improvement and innovation, this is your chance to be part of something truly meaningful.
- Qualifications in a health, medical research field or related discipline (PhD and/or Master’s degree in cancer research or life sciences will be highly regarded).
- Demonstrated senior management experience in a health or medical research environment, leading operations, with the ability to contribute at a strategic level.
- Experience motivating and leading teams through transformation and growth, with exceptional communication skills, negotiation and influencing skills.
- Proven experience in developing and implementing annual operating plans, research governance, risk management, and contract management.
- Experience with grant schemes, research data systems/grant management platforms and contract management.
- Strong analytical skills and a solution focused mindset.
- Knowledge of breast cancer and / or cancer research landscape will be highly regarded.
How to Apply
To be considered for this position please apply now with your resume and a tailored cover letter directly through the advertisement. If you have any further questions, please contact Diana Linde at diana@beaumontpeople.com.au.
Applications will be assessed as they are received.
At Beaumont People we believe a diverse workplace is a happy workplace, and we love working with organisations that feel the same way. We encourage applications from people of all different backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from CALD backgrounds and people with disabilities.
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital or parental status. Should you require a reasonable accommodation to be made for your application to be assessed we would be more than happy to discuss how that can be arranged.
