Chief Operations Officer - ARC Centre of Excellence QPI

The Opportunity The ARC Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computer Performance and Integration, based at UNSW, is a recently established national research centre positioned to drive the next wave of quantum technology innovation in Australia. As Chief Operations Officer (COO), you will play a foundational role in shaping the Centre’s operational framework, building its professional capability, and ensuring the successful delivery of its mission across multiple university nodes, government partners and industry collaborators.

This job is based in Australia. Working closely with the Centre Director, Executive team and Advisory Boards, you will lead the development of the Centre’s operational strategy, establish high‑performing teams, and implement the systems and partnerships that enable world‑class research and impactful translation. This is a rare opportunity to help build a major national research initiative from the ground up and contribute to a transformative agenda at the forefront of quantum computing.

Position Details

Salary, Level 10 TRP

Full time

Fixed term – 3 years

Location: Kensington, Sydney, Australia

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and delivery of QPI’s strategic and operational plans in partnership with the Centre Director and Executive

Oversee all operational functions including financial management, budgeting, infrastructure, regulatory compliance and contractual obligations

Build, lead and develop a high‑performing professional team, fostering operational excellence and continuous improvement

Manage major strategic projects, policy development, risk, quality assurance and compliance with ARC, university and legislative requirements

Strengthen and maintain partnerships across UNSW, other university nodes, government agencies and industry, representing the Centre at senior levels nationally and internationally

Provide high‑level advice and oversee the preparation of key research documentation including reports, grant applications and impact materials

About You

Extensive experience in a complex research environment and strong knowledge of national research operations

Proven ability to lead high‑performing teams and manage complex projects in large, dynamic organisations

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build effective partnerships across academia, government and industry

Strong financial and organisational management skills, including experience developing business plans and overseeing budgets

Outstanding analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with a track record of developing innovative solutions to complex challenges

Demonstrated ability to influence, negotiate and build strategic relationships at senior levels nationally and internationally

Benefits And Culture

17% Superannuation and leave loading

Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas Period

Access to lifelong learning and career development

How To Apply Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application.

Applicants must have working rights in Australia and be able to be on site in Kensington on a regular basis. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contacts listed below.

Contact For role‑specific inquiries, please contact Prof Andrea Morello (Centre Director)

E: a.morello@unsw.edu.au

For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Partner)

E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au

Pre‑Employment Checks

National and International Criminal history checks

Entitlement to work and ID checks

Working With Children Checks

Completion of a Gender‑Based Violence Prevention Declaration

Verification of relevant qualifications

Verification of relevant professional membership

Employment history and reference checks

Financial responsibility assessments/checks

Medical Checks and Assessments

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 1 March 2026

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

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