Chief Executive Officer

Lead Australia's Industry-Research Collaboration Agenda

Cooperative Research Australia (CRA) is the peak body for industry-research collaboration and the national voice for cooperative research. We strengthen and promote the transformative potential of collaborative, industry-led research through advocacy, knowledge exchange, professional development and strategic engagement. CRA supports Australian innovation by connecting research organisations, industry, government and investors to drive commercial, economic, social and environmental outcomes that benefit all Australians.

Representing Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs), their participants and legacy entities, universities, research organisations, NCRIS facilities, innovation precincts and innovative businesses, CRA plays a critical role in shaping Australia's innovation ecosystem and research translation capability.

As a member-led organisation, CRA exists to support and amplify the impact of its members through advocacy, capability development, strategic connections and the sharing of best practice.

We are seeking an influential and forward-thinking Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through its next phase of growth, impact and national leadership.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the CRA Board through the Chair, the CEO serves as the organisation's leader, spokesperson and chief advocate. You will be responsible for advancing CRA's strategic vision while ensuring the organisation remains financially sustainable, deeply connected to its members and influential within Australia's research, innovation and commercialisation landscape.

As the public face of CRA, you will build and strengthen relationships with Ministers, government departments, parliamentarians, industry leaders, research institutions, funding agencies and key stakeholders across the innovation ecosystem. You will advocate for policies and initiatives that enhance industry-research collaboration and position CRA as the recognised authority on cooperative research and research translation in Australia.

A key priority will be to strengthen member engagement, grow membership value and ensure CRA's advocacy agenda reflects the needs and priorities of its diverse membership community.

You will also lead a high-performing team, oversee the delivery of CRA's flagship events and member services, identify new growth and partnership opportunities, and work closely with the Board to deliver strategic and operational outcomes.

For further details on the role or a confidential conversation, contact Rochelle Burdge from Scalable HR on 04•• ••• 679 or ••••@scalablehr.com.au

About You

You are a strategic and highly credible executive with a passion for innovation, collaboration and creating meaningful national and economic impact. You bring the ability to influence at the highest levels while building meaningful relationships across industry, government, and the research sector.

You will join CRA at an exciting time of change in the innovation system.

You will bring:

• Significant executive leadership experience within a membership organisation, not-for-profit, industry association, research, innovation, government or related environment.

• Demonstrated success influencing policy, advocating with senior decision-makers and establishing trusted stakeholder relationships.

• Ability to maintain and utilise CRM systems and data to capitalise on the value of membership data and provide insights and information of value to our membership and decision-makers.

• Proven experience working effectively with Boards and supporting strong governance and accountability frameworks.

• A deep understanding of Australia's research, innovation and commercialisation ecosystem and the critical role of industry-research collaboration.

• Strong financial and commercial acumen, with experience driving organisational growth, revenue generation and financial sustainability.

• Exceptional communication, public speaking and media engagement skills.

• A track record of building strategic partnerships and delivering measurable stakeholder value.

• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams while fostering a positive, inclusive and resilient culture.

• The ability to identify emerging opportunities and position organisations for long-term growth and relevance.

Why Join CRA?

This is a unique opportunity to lead the national peak body representing one of Australia's most important drivers of innovation and productivity.

At CRA, you will have the opportunity to:

• Shape national conversations on research, innovation and commercialisation.

• Advocate for policies that strengthen Australia's future prosperity and competitiveness.

• Build relationships with leaders across government, industry and research.

• Lead a respected organisation with a strong national profile and engaged membership base.

• Drive strategic growth and influence across a rapidly evolving innovation ecosystem.

• Make a meaningful contribution to Australia's economic, social and environmental future.

• Negotiate flexible arrangements in a workplace that values its people.

Apply Now

If you are an influential and strategic leader who is passionate about innovation, collaboration and national economic impact, we would love to hear from you.

Applications should include a cover letter addressing the ‘About You’ section and a current resume.

Join Cooperative Research Australia and help shape the future of industry-research collaboration in Australia. Applications close COB Friday 18 September 2026.