The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) is seeking an outstanding executive leader to take on the role of Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Science & Research). This is a unique opportunity to shape the research future of one of Australia's most respected scientific institutions at a pivotal moment in its evolution.
As Australia's leading tropical marine research agency, AIMS delivers the science that supports the sustainable management and protection of our marine environment. From Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, across northern Australia, to the Great Barrier Reef, AIMS' research addresses some of the most complex environmental challenges facing tropical marine ecosystems, helping governments, industries and communities make informed decisions for the future.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the Deputy CEO (Science & Research) will champion a positive research culture and set the standards for research quality that is integral to enhancing AIMS’ reputation as a world-leader in marine science. They will ensure the continuous improvement and success of Australia’s marine tropical science and research initiatives, core research facilities, research ethics and integrity. They will lead prioritisation of research to inform evidence-based decision-making of allocation on resources to support scientific excellence.
The successful candidate will be a distinguished research leader with a PhD or equivalent qualification and a track record of leading complex, high-performing research organisations. You will bring credibility as a respected researcher and scholar, combined with experience leading multidisciplinary teams across complex and geographically dispersed environments. As a strategic and values-led leader, you will have demonstrated success in setting organisational direction, driving research performance, enabling innovation and fostering inclusive, collaborative cultures where people and ideas can thrive.
Being a collaborative member of the Executive Leadership Team, you will combine strong governance, financial and risk management capability with the ability to foster multi-, inter- and transdisciplinary research collaboration across institutions and sectors. You will be motivated by the opportunity to shape the future of marine science, strengthen AIMS' global research standing, and help deliver the ambitions of Strategy 2040.
AIMS acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia's first scientists. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past, present and future, and the custodians of the land and sea country on which we work. Learn more about our commitment to Indigenous partnerships.
AIMS was awarded Athena Swan Bronze status in 2020 by the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) program. This award recognises AIMS' commitment to improving gender equity, diversity and inclusion in STEMM disciplines.
How to Apply
AIMS has partnered with executive search firm Perrett Laver for this appointment. Perrett Laver will support the selection committee in the discharge of duties, both to assist in the assessment of candidates against the requirements for the role and to identify the widest possible field of qualified candidates.
Applications should consist of a full curriculum vitae detailing academic and professional qualifications, full employment history and relevant achievements. CVs should be accompanied by a covering letter describing briefly how candidates meet the criteria outlined in the person specification, why the appointment is of interest and what they believe they can bring to the role.
For further information or a confidential conversation about this opportunity please contact Tadhg Waddington at Tadhg.Waddington@perrettlaver.com.
See below for the full position description and selection criteria. Please quote reference 8527 in your application.
Applications close 11:59pm AEST Friday 7th August 2026.
Remuneration: An attractive total remuneration package between $400,000-440,000 (inclusive of superannuation) will be negotiated with the successful candidate. The term is for five years, with the possibility of renewal.
Location: There is preference for the Deputy CEO (Science & Research) position to be located in Townsville (QLD), but applications will be considered for candidates based in Perth (WA), Darwin (NT) or Canberra (ACT).
If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.
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