- Lead operational excellence and strategic transformation and growth in a world-class research institute
- Drive innovation, impact, and sustainability across professional services
- Join a mission-driven team advancing brain health for the community
The Position
Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) seeks to appoint an accomplished and visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join its Senior Executive team. Reporting directly to the CEO/Institute Director, the COO will play a pivotal role in delivering NeuRA’s ambitious five-year research strategy, NeuRA Forward 2025–2030. The COO will partner with the CEO/Institute Director in providing strategic and operational leadership day-to-day for an Institute on a strong growth and impact journey. Working collaboratively with an ELT that includes the Director of Research, CFO, and Director of People & Culture, the appointed COO will help ensure the successful implementation of strategy and facilitate research translation and impact. The role is responsible for leading all Professional Services teams—including Finance, People & Culture, Fundraising, Communications, IT, and Facilities—ensuring operational excellence and value creation to support NeuRA’s research activities.
The COO will drive the development and implementation of enabling strategies, business improvement projects, and integrated business continuity planning. Fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the COO will regularly review talent, systems, and practices to maximise efficiency and effectiveness. Success in the position requires advanced analytical and conceptual skills, strong business acumen, and a proven ability to generate income and drive significant organisational change. The COO will also collaborate with the CFO on risk management and financial sustainability, establish an internal audit function, and act as CEO when required.
The successful candidate will hold a postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline, with qualifications in law and appropriate professional membership highly regarded. With proven experience as a COO or strategic business partner to the CEO, the appointee will demonstrate a strong track record in strategy development and implementation, and the ability to lead professional services teams in complex environments. Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders are essential, as is a commitment to NeuRA’s values. Familiarity with health, medical, or research environments and experience with government relations would be advantageous.
The Organisation
Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) is a leading independent medical research institute, affiliated with the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD). Based in Randwick, Sydney, NeuRA is home to approximately 450 staff, including employees, honorary appointments, students, and visitors.
NeuRA is renowned for its world-class research facilities and its commitment to tackling brain health challenges through leadership, excellence, and innovation in neuroscience research. NeuRA’s vision is to address the brain health challenges that shape our lives, and its values—Impact, Openness, Excellence, Integrity, and Inclusion—are at the core of everything the organisation does.
To apply – click ‘Apply Now’, using reference NEUcoo1025, addressing your cover letter and resume to Michael De Santis and Katie Hooker, of Future Leadership™, or call 1300 347 437 for further information.
