POSITION PROFILE
Position Number:
99909
Classification:
Executive Level 2 (RPM 2 or 3)
(5 year non-ongoing specified task)
Salary:
$136,615 - $166,167, plus 15.4% super
Title:
Research Program Manager Livestock Production Systems
Program:
Research and Development Programs
Supervisor:
Chief Executive Officer (PN 99901)
Security Classification:
Negative Vetting 1
About ACIAR
ACIAR’s diverse, high quality program of collaborative research for development and training, focused
on the Asia-Pacific region and Africa, harnesses Australia’s research strengths and contributes to
poverty alleviation and sustainable economic development.
ACIAR’s program is developed in the context of the Australian Government's aid policy and
implemented in close collaboration with relevant Australian government agencies, especially the
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), and with research partners in Australia and
overseas.
Operating under the ACIAR Act 1982, ACIAR is part of Australia’s aid program, fostering international
agricultural research and development partnerships that will result in reduced poverty, more
sustainable agricultural systems and greater food security.
ACIAR’s headquarters are located in Bruce (Canberra), with eight regional/country offices in the IndoPacific region. Further information on our current projects, programs and priorities can be found on
our website at http://aciar.gov.au.
About the Position
The majority of livestock kept by smallholder farmers (small and large ruminants, pigs and poultry) are
integral components of complex crop-livestock systems. Building a complete understanding of the
biological, social and economic aspects of these systems is a necessary ingredient for determining
intervention points and the development of appropriate technologies for smallholder farmers.
The purpose of the Livestock Production Systems program is to utilise collaborative partnerships in
research and development to improve the contribution of livestock and their products to the economic
and social wellbeing of rural people in developing countries and Australia.
The position has responsibility for managing a portfolio of research in development projects
commissioned by ACIAR in the Livestock Production Systems area. The projects involve research
institutions in Australia and developing countries within ACIAR's mandate area and, in some cases,
include linkages to appropriate International Agricultural Research Centres. Some projects requiring
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multidisciplinary research may need to be developed jointly with other Research Program Managers.
The position also plays a wider corporate role by contributing to activities in ACIAR’s broader research
program including peer review of ACIAR projects, contribution to submissions and reviews, and
contribution to ACIAR’s internal committees. The position is one of a team of Research Program
Managers who share similar management responsibilities.
The successful candidate will work in a small team which includes other Research Program Managers
and program assistants.
Duties:
Manage ACIAR's Livestock Production Systems program and contribute to ACIAR’s corporate
activities through the following duties:
1.
Identify, evaluate and prioritise a range of pre- and post-farmgate livestock production
systems issues that constrain the development of livestock industries in developing countries
and Australia, determine the extent to which these can be addressed by scientific research,
and set priorities for solution of these problems appropriate to ACIAR's mandate and mode of
operation and Australia’s relevant research capacity.
2.
Develop, implement, monitor, review and evaluate a program of activities addressing livestock
production priorities, by:

producing original and innovative ideas for research, development and training that
address priority areas

preparing and appraising proposals for major research and development projects

developing the scientific and technical basis of contracts for approved projects

coordinating and monitoring progress and implementation by contracting agencies of
the projects

analysing and evaluating the results of research in programs and projects, and
identifying development initiatives.
3.
Maximise the potential contribution of project findings to the solution of identified livestock
systems problems by facilitating the appropriate communication and implementation of the
results of ACIAR projects to relevant research, development and extension services.
4.
Advise ACIAR and other agencies on matters relating to livestock production, maintain
effective liaison and communication with ACIAR's clients, and represent ACIAR as required.
5.
Manage budget and reporting aspects of the program in a competent and timely manner.
6.
Contribute to activities across ACIAR’s research program including peer review of ACIAR
projects, contribution to submissions and reviews, and contribution to ACIAR’s internal
committees.
7.
Assist other program managers in the design and monitoring of projects in other ACIAR
programs. This may also include being responsible for facilitating Australian research and
training provider and industry linkages with a major cross-ACIAR program.
8.
Supervise program support staff and contribute to staff development and the maintenance of
a safe and harmonious working environment.
9.
Contribute to the corporate development of ACIAR through assisting in the induction, training
and mentoring of staff.
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SELECTION CRITERIA
Executive Level 2
Research Program Manager
Livestock Production Systems
Position Number 99909
1.
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy or equivalent in a field relevant to animal science, livestock
production or veterinary science.
2.
Very high level of achievement, experience and reputation in research management related to
animal science, livestock production or veterinary science or related field in Australia and
internationally.
3.
Ability to develop and promote a strategic vision for the Livestock Production Systems
program area in accord with ACIAR’s research priorities, the needs of partner countries and
the Government’s aid program.
4.
Very high level of achievement and experience in research program management. This will
include evidence of the ability to effectively manage resources, develop and maintain
productive working relationships with providers, develop project proposals and implement,
monitor, evaluate and report on progress of approved projects.
5.
Capacity to represent ACIAR and to communicate with national and international stakeholders
at highest management levels in government agencies and scientific establishments, with
sensitivity to cross cultural issues. This will include evidence of well-developed oral and written
communication skills.
6.
Ability to develop and maintain productive working relationships with others in ACIAR by
participating in broader organisational activities and maximising benefits of collegiate
collaboration on cross-program projects and issues. Excellent interpersonal skills, including
good networking and influencing skills.
7.
Proven capacity to work in a small inter-disciplinary team, and to effectively supervise staff.
8.
A client orientation, and proven commitment to the transfer and adoption of the results of
research.
NB: All ACIAR employees demonstrate a commitment to the APS Code of Conduct and Values, as
well as to workplace diversity and workplace health and safety. It is also expected that ACIAR
employees will have appropriate cross-cultural sensitivities.
December 2013