Company Overview
Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is responsible for planning, investing, and overseeing research, development, and extension for the grains sector in Australia. They meet the evolving needs of grain growers with a vision to be regarded as the grower's "RD&E department." GRDC believes it should be a valued grower asset that is transparent and trusted – a true research partner who seeks to be agile and business‐like in their operations with the goals of improved productivity, sustainability and profitability for growers.
Opportunity
GRDC is wishing to appoint a Manager, Extension and Adoption, who will contribute to the delivery of GRDC's Extension and Adoption strategy and activities across the investment lifestyle. Reporting to the Senior Manager Extension & Adoption, the main objective of this position is to ensure that research investments lead to real‐world impact for growers. Key to this role will be supporting GRDC to optimise investments in extension to translate research outcomes into practice change, adoption on‐farm and impact for Australian grain growers. This role shapes investment design, procurement and delivery performance, and depends on strong collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
This will require systems thinking and implementation, including the design of resources and frameworks that help investment managers plan for real impact through clear output criteria and appropriate resourcing. It also supports GRDC's broader goal of strengthening consistency and capability in extension and adoption, while positioning the organisation at the forefront of best‐practice information delivery, knowledge creation and practice change.
About You
A high‐performing Manager, Extension & Adoption brings proven experience in designing and delivering complex agricultural investments, with a strong track record of translating research into measurable on‐farm practice change. They combine systems thinking, stakeholder influence and delivery discipline to ensure extension is embedded from the outset, driving consistent, scalable adoption and impact across GRDC's investment portfolio.
Key Traits & Capabilities
* Impact‐focused – driven to translate research into real on‐farm practice change and measurable outcomes
* Strong program delivery – experienced in designing, managing and delivering complex investments across their lifecycle
* Extension & adoption expertise – understands how to drive behaviour change using effective extension approaches
* Systems thinker – able to design integrated adoption pathways and align activities to achieve impact
* Collaborative influencer – builds strong relationships and works across teams and stakeholders to deliver outcomes
* Commercial and analytical – able to articulate value, performance measures and return on investment
* Organised and resilient – manages multiple priorities and maintains delivery momentum in complex environments
* Continuous improver – identifies opportunities to strengthen processes, frameworks and organisational capability
To be successful in this key role you will have:
* A track‐record of project delivery in sustainable development and/or practice change, at industry level
* Exposure to commercialisation of research, innovation, sustainability and commercial investments
* Exceptional negotiation and influencing ability with proven interpersonal and problem‐solving skills
* Strong analytical and strategic planning capability complimented with sound financial acumen
* Broad stakeholder management skills with the ability to adapt as needed
* A collaborative mindset, a strategic outlook, and excellent time management skills
* Tertiary qualifications in Business, Law, Commerce (or a related field)
* Ability to travel as required
*Applications from a broad range of industry sectors are encouraged.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to make a valuable contribution to the Australian grains sector. GRDC aims to enhance the productivity, profitability and sustainability of Australian grain growers and to benefit the industry and wider community.
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