The Opportunity
As one of Australia’s biggest and most respected child health research institutes we are seeking a Theme Manager for our Precision Health Theme, supporting the Theme Head, to help drive our new strategic plan, which aims to solve the biggest challenges facing children and families.
Research Reimagined 2025-2035 is an ambitious and bold plan revolving around three core pillars – focus, impact, thrive – and emphasises challenge-driven research and the pursuit of outcomes which have the most impact. Our vision is simple – happy, healthy kids.
As a Theme Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in steering the day-to-day operations of one of our core Themes, working closely with the Theme Head to ensure alignment with the Institute’s Strategic Plan. This senior leadership position offers the opportunity to shape innovative research programs, drive operational excellence, and cultivate a thriving, people-focused work culture.
You will empower research teams to achieve high-impact results, foster cross-theme collaboration, and ensure that every initiative supports our vision of making a difference in children’s lives.
Precision Health utilises personalised approaches to healthcare, aiming to tailor prevention and treatment strategies based on genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This theme strives to make healthcare more targeted and effective for each child’s unique needs.
Some of your responsibilities will include:
- Oversee daily operations, ensuring smooth workflows, optimal resource allocation, and alignment with research objectives.
- Translate strategic initiatives into actionable plans that drive meaningful research outcomes.
- Mentor and support research teams, guiding their professional development and encouraging innovation.
- Represent the Theme in meetings and external engagements, showcasing the incredible work of your teams.
- Connect and align research efforts across Themes, driving synergies and shared successes.
Manage resources, budgets, and timelines to ensure high-quality research outcomes.
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This role will be based at Nedlands, WA, and is offered at 0.6 – 0.8 FTE.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will possess the following:
- A higher degree by research in a relevant discipline (e.g., health, biomedical, or social sciences) or a tertiary qualification in science/business administration.
- Proven leadership experience in complex environments, with a talent for strategic planning and operational management.
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
- Demonstrated success in managing teams, budgets, and projects with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes.
- Strong ability to build and maintain productive relationships with diverse stakeholders.
At The Kids Research Institute Australia, we are committed to building a workplace culture that reflects the communities we serve. We actively recruit, support and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ people, people of all ages, and those with diverse lived experiences. We also provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
If you meet many, but not all, of the role requirements, we encourage you to apply. We also welcome you to mention any career breaks in your cover letter to help us understand your journey.
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in how we:
- Support staff-led inclusion and allyship groups.
- Offer flexible work practices that recognise different needs and life stages.
- Provide training, development and mentoring opportunities to increase inclusive leadership and create an environment where all staff can thrive.
- Partner with communities to strength cultural awareness and belonging.
- Ensure adjustments and accessible practices are available for diverse community groups.
We continually strive to measure our progress and improve where we can.
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Alongside our inclusive culture, you’ll enjoy:
- Extra annual leave at Christmas and Easter.
- Salary packaging and entertainment benefits.
- Health and wellbeing programs with weekly events.
- Flexible and hybrid working options.
- Recognition and professional development opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning.
- Modern offices with sit-to-stand desks and end-of-trip facilities.
Staff discounts on travel, IT, stationery, and access to corporate health insurance.
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How to Apply
If this role feels like the right fit and an exciting new opportunity for you, please click on 'Apply Now' to visit our Career Site, view the Job Description, and submit your application.
Please include a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that specifically addresses the skills and experience outlined in the “About You” section.
Applications will only be accepted through our career portal. If you are experiencing technical difficulties or require reasonable accommodations in completing your application, please contact [email protected].
Contact Name: Clare Berry
Contact Email: [email protected]
Closing Date: 25/09/2026 - We reserve the right to hire prior to the closing date.
