Applied Research and Innovation Manager

Chisholm is seeking an experienced Applied Research and Innovation Manager for our Digital, AI and Technology Centre of Excellence.

BELONGING & INCLUSION

Chisholm is resolutely diverse. We celebrate our people’s unique contributions to achieving our ambition to transform lives through relevant and responsive high-quality education. Chisholm’s culture of Belonging & Inclusion strives to promote a self-regulating culture that enhances the experiences of our employees, students and communities.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Applied Research and Innovation Manager, Digital, AI and Technology Centre of Excellence (CoE) is a senior leader within the Centre, responsible for the designing our applied research approach, innovating with current and emerging technology to support CoE deliverables and overseeing applied research projects. 

As the Applied Research and Innovation Manager, your key responsibilities include:

• Design and implement the Centre’s applied research framework and model, aligned to digital, AI and technology workforce priorities.
• Lead a pipeline of industry-led, problem-based research programs across vocational and Higher Education contexts.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive applied research plan that translates the CoE’s activity plan into clear, measurable industry and education outcomes across all diverse stakeholder groups and needs and market needs.
• Establish research priority areas linked to:
• Digital, AI and cyber capability
• Workforce transformation
• Innovative education and delivery models
• Build and lead a structured industry engagement model that captures and translates real-world problems into:
• Applied research projects
• Student projects and work integrated learning opportunities
• Prototype and pilot technology solutions
• Partner with industry, government and community to co-design innovation-focused research initiatives.
• Embed applied research into the Centre’s delivery ecosystem, including:
• Simulation hub environments
• Workplace satellite campuses
• Traineeships, apprenticeships and short courses
• VET Workforce development programs
• Enable students to participate in live research and innovation projects as part of their learning journey.
• Lead the development of innovative digital, AI and technology-enabled solutions arising from applied research.
• Build a strong applied research culture across the Centre and wider organisation.
• Identify and secure research and innovation funding opportunities.

This position is assessed as partly remote capable and if this position is approved for flexible work arrangements Chisholm’s retains the right to recall to campus in the event of incidents and events that require on campus attendance.

ABOUT YOU

You are a highly motivated individual with strong experience leading applied research programs from design to delivery and proven experience in seeking funding and translating funding requirements and policy priorities into actionable industry solutions and outcomes

Qualifications required for the role:

• Research based degree, or equivalent demonstrated through professional experience and published works.

ABOUT US

Chisholm is one of the largest vocational training providers in the state with a team of over 1,400 dedicated staff supporting 41,000 students who choose to study at Chisholm and training at our modern campuses across Melbourne’s southeast and online.  We partner with governments, educational institutes, and businesses worldwide, sharing our expertise in vocational education.

We offer over 400 courses that include nationally accredited pathways from secondary school programs and short courses, through to certificates, diplomas, and degrees.

At Chisholm, we embrace differences in gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural background, disability, religion, and sexual orientation. We know that diversity and inclusion help us to attract, recruit, engage and retain a team of talented people.

Chisholm has zero tolerance for child abuse and all forms of harm to children. All allegations and safety concerns will be treated consistently in accordance with Chisholm policy and procedure.

WHAT WE OFFER

• An Inclusive work culture- Chisholm is resolutely diverse. We celebrate our people’s unique contributions to achieving our ambition to transform lives through relevant and responsive high-quality education.
• Professional Development- continue to grow your career
• Networking Opportunities with Industry Partners
• State of the art facilities on our campuses
• Free on-site parking as well as locations close to public transport
• Free Employee Assistance Program- get the support you want. Its confidential.

If this is the job for you, please apply online now. We look forward to receiving your application!

Important information about your application:

Your application should include:

• a cover letter
• your resume
• contact details of three (3) referees

Please note, appointment to this position is subject to satisfactory completion of Safety Screening requirements including:

• Verified copies of all qualifications and transcripts as listed on resume.
• Current & Valid Working with Children Check (Employee and not Volunteer)
• Verified copy of unrestricted rights to work in Australia
• Verified Police Check (at employee expense)

Applications for this position close at 9am Wednesday 26 August 2026. 

If you have any questions regarding the position or require further information, please contact Elissa Mckenzie, Director Digital, AI and Technology Centre of Excellence at elissa.mckenzie@chisholm.edu.au. 

We are committed to a fair and equitable merit-based recruitment process for all our candidates. If you have specific accessibility or support requirements, please contact our Belonging & Inclusion Lead by emailing inclusion@chisholm.edu.au.

Chisholm Institute reserves the right to withdraw an advertised position at any stage.

Find out more about us by visiting us on our Website and social media sites.