Business Development Manager (Christchurch)

RESEARCH AT OTAGO | RANGAHAU O ŌTĀKOU

UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO, CHRISTCHURCH | ŌTĀKOU WHAKAIHU WAKA, ŌTAUTAHI

About our team | Mō te tīma

Research makes a difference: to our lives, health, economy, society and environment. At the University of Otago, we have a strong history of research and scholarship from our foundation in 1869 and we are proud to be one of New Zealand’s most research-intensive universities.

The Research and Enterprise Office (R&E) supports and assists researchers in the identification of funding opportunities, partnerships with industry, grant applications, and the establishment of research contracts.

We work closely with academic staff, students, the health sector, and Otago Innovation Ltd (the University’s wholly owned commercialisation arm) to foster a culture of enterprise and collaboration.

At the Christchurch campus, we have a strong and growing focus on clinical trials, translational research, and industry engagement across biomedical science, biotechnology, and medical device innovation, supported by the University’s new state-of-the-art Christchurch campus building Wai-Ora, that will evolve to be a central pillar of the Te Papa Hauora/Health Precinct enabling greater collaboration with other organisations in the precinct to provide a modern environment for collaborative research, education, and clinical engagement.

The role | Te mahi

Since its formation in 2011, Research and Enterprise has grown research income from $88M to over $200M, through an extended period of significant change in government strategy and investment. The role of a Business Development Manager is to promote the University’s research activities, build strategic relationships, and develop opportunities for the generation of external research income and enhancement of the University’s reputation as a world-leading research institution.

This position has a particular focus on clinical trials and translational health research, including engagement with pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device sectors. In addition to developing a strong pipeline of new opportunities, Business Development Managers are also involved in feasibility processes, contract negotiation, and ongoing relationship management with industry sponsors and partners.

The role works closely with clinical investigators, health system partners, and internal research support teams to position the University of Otago as a preferred clinical trials destination.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

To be successful in this key role, you will ideally be PhD qualified (or have equivalent experience), and have strong knowledge and understanding of the diversity of university research activity and funding models.

You will also be able to demonstrate:

• Commercial and business development skills, particularly in negotiation, relationship management, and contracting.
• Experience and knowledge in securing strategic opportunities in clinical trials, biomedical science, biotechnology, and/or medical devices.
• Proven ability to identify, develop, and convert new opportunities into funded research or clinical trial activity.
• Background awareness of clinical trials processes, feasibility assessment, and the New Zealand health research environment.
• Demonstrated knowledge of clinical trial management in New Zealand, including familiarity with the New Zealand Association of Clinical Research (NZACRes), and its role in supporting industry best practice, professional development, and collaboration across the clinical research sector.
• Proven ability to plan and effectively manage a wide range of projects, stakeholders, and clients simultaneously.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to interact effectively and tactfully with a diverse range of stakeholders including researchers, clinicians, and industry partners.
• Cultural awareness and understanding of the University’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including supporting equitable research engagement.
• High-level analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability as a self-starter who can independently initiate, manage, and deliver outcomes in a complex environment.
• A collaborative, team-oriented approach that supports the University’s wide research capability.

The position is suited to someone who is driven, proactive, and brings high levels of energy to succeed in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment spanning academia, healthcare, and industry.

You will be joining a supportive team with a range of experience and perspectives. If you are passionate about research, industry engagement, and clinical innovation, and want to make a difference – we want to hear from you.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a part time (18.75 hours), permanent position based in Ōtautahi, Christchurch.

The appointment range for this role is $107,320 to $115,834. Top of range $124,348 (pro rata).

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.

We offer competitive salary (pro rata), 5 weeks’ annual leave (pro rata), a 6.75% superannuation scheme, and the ability to achieve genuine work/life balance.

For further information, or to discuss the role in confidence, please contact Dr. Samuel Heenan via the contact details below.

Application | Tono

Applications quoting reference number 2601020 will close Sunday, 19 July 2026.

Applications may be reviewed as they are received. The University reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

Additional Information

Note: As a part-time position, the salary range for this role will be the pro-rata equivalent of the annual full-time salary range listed.

Contact: Dr Samuel Heenan Tel: 0212790535

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

Location: About Christchurch

Primary Location

NZL-SI-Christchurch

Employment Status

Permanent

Salary Level and Range

Management Band 3 (Range of Appointments $107,320 to $115,834, Top of Range $124,348)

Organisation

Research and Enterprise Office

Job Function

Administrative and Operations Management