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Location: Brisbane-based preferred – other capital city locations may be considered
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Work Environment: Hybrid.
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Sector: Not-for-profit – Indigenous Employment and Training
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Work Type: Full-time
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Contract Length: Fixed term till 30 June 2028 (with potential extension)
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Remuneration: $120,000 per annum excluding superannuation
About Us
The Alliance is Australia’s national voice for Indigenous employment and training. We are the only Indigenous-led peak body solely focused on this sector. As an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) we are governed by an Indigenous board and led by an Indigenous CEO. We connect and enable the ecosystem: advocating for our member organisations with government and big business, building the evidence base that shapes policy, and giving industry the tools and expertise to make Indigenous employment commitments real. Founded in 2023, we are independently governed, evidence-based and already making change happen through policy influence, national research and a growing membership that spans urban, regional and remote Australia.
Role Overview
The Research Manager will lead The Alliance’s growing research function and overseeing the delivery of research programs that inform policy, advocacy, and sector development across Indigenous employment and training. Reporting to the General Manager, Research and Capability, the role provides ethical and strategic leadership across research planning, project delivery, stakeholder engagement, and research governance activities that support long-term impact across the sector.
The position is responsible for leading research projects and staff, interpreting research, policy and sector developments, and ensuring evidence and insights contribute to organisational priorities, national discussions, and evidence-based advocacy. Working closely with external and internal stakeholders, the Research Manager plays a key role in strengthening the evidence base for systemic reform and advancing culturally informed approaches to Indigenous employment and training.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the planning and delivery of the organisation’s research programs including research design, culturally informed methodologies, governance, data analysis, quality assurance and the development of systems and processes that support high-quality research outputs.
- Supervise and support research staff, coordinate internal and external project resources, and contribute to building organisational research capability.
- Translate research findings and sector insights into reports, policy advice, briefing materials, and evidence-based advocacy that informs organisational priorities and national discussions.
- Build and maintain productive relationships and represent The Alliance in research forums, consultations, and sector engagement activities.
- Contribute to research program planning, project prioritisation, budget oversight, resource management, and the identification of new research and funding opportunities.
What we’re looking for
We are seeking a strategic and experienced research leader who is passionate about strengthening evidence-based policy, advocacy and sector development to support improved outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. You will bring:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, public policy, economics, Indigenous studies or related discipline
- Postgraduate qualifications in research, policy or a related discipline are desirable
- Demonstrated knowledge of research governance, ethical practice, and culturally informed research approaches
- Demonstrated experience leading research projects, programs, or applied research activities.
- Strong research, analytical, leadership, and stakeholder engagement capability.
- Experience supervising staff, managing competing priorities, and coordinating complex project delivery.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate research findings for different audiences.
- Ability to build productive relationships across government, industry, academia, and community sectors.
Why Join Us?
At The Alliance, you’ll be part of a rapidly growing peak body with a national footprint, dedicated to strengthening outcomes
- Opportunity to contribute to systemic change and long-term impact in the Indigenous employment and training sector.
- Be part of a supportive, culturally safe, and flexible workplace that values empowerment, culture, collaboration, unity, trust, and excellence
- Access employee benefits such as cultural leave, employee assistance program, and salary sacrifice arrangement ($15,900 + meal entertainment and holiday accommodation).
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a two-page cover letter outlining your motivation and suitability for this role. Applications will be reviewed following the close date. To apply, request for the detailed position description or ask any questions about the role, please contact people@nieta.org.au.
