Key Account Manager - Research Partnerships

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University of Waikato seeks a commercially astute Key Account Manager, Research Partnerships, to accelerate industry collaborations across engineering and computer science, reporting to the Director of Commercial Partnerships in the DVCR Office. This permanent role leads a portfolio of strategic partners, developing partnerships and applied research initiatives, translating capability into commercial value and coordinating delivery. You will hold a degree in engineering or computer science, have proven B2B relationship management and deal-making experience, and demonstrate strategic account planning with senior stakeholders. Apply online by March 15 2026 (requisition 1003393); review the PD via the link and contact Florian Spoerl for a confidential chat. Salary commensurate with experience.

• Lead high-value industry partnerships
• Drive growth in applied research revenue
• Strategic role within DVCR Office

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

The University of Waikato is seeking a commercially astute and strategically minded Key Account Manager – Research Partnerships to accelerate the growth of high-value industry partnerships across our Engineering and Computer Science disciplines.

Reporting to the Director of Commercial and Business Partnerships, this permanent role sits within the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Office and plays a central part in delivering the University’s ambition to expand industry-derived research and long-term strategic collaborations.

You will act as the primary interface for a defined portfolio of strategic industry partners across engineering, advanced manufacturing, robotics, AI and machine learning, software development, cybersecurity, digital technologies and infrastructure engineering. Moving beyond transactional engagements, you will shape and secure multi-year partnerships spanning applied research, co-innovation, talent pipelines and shared infrastructure.

Working closely with academic leaders, research institutes and the HIKO Hub innovation precinct, you will translate complex technical capability into compelling commercial value propositions, negotiate partnership agreements, and lead coordinated delivery across diverse stakeholders.

Salary will be commensurate with skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a permanent, full-time role (37.5 hours per week) based in Hamilton or Tauranga.

For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Florian Spoerl, Director of Commercial and Business Partnerships. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You are a strategic relationship leader with strong technical credibility and a proven track record of delivering commercial outcomes within engineering, technology or research-intensive environments.

You will bring:

• A degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering or a closely related technical discipline
• Significant experience in key account management, technical sales, business development or partnership management within engineering, manufacturing or digital sectors
• Demonstrated success managing high-value B2B relationships and achieving revenue targets
• Strong commercial acumen, including proposal development, pricing, negotiation and contract management involving IP and technology considerations
• The ability to engage confidently with senior technical stakeholders including CTOs, R&D Directors and academic leaders
• A strategic mindset, capable of developing multi-year account plans aligned to institutional goals
• A commitment to partnership with Māori and an understanding of culturally responsive engagement

You are proactive, commercially aware and able to operate at both strategic and operational levels, building enduring partnerships that deliver measurable impact.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we? 

The Commercial & Business Partnerships division is a strategic function within the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Office. The team is responsible for growing and diversifying the University’s research profile through deeper industry engagement, scaled external funding and long-term commercial partnerships.

Central to this strategy is the HIKO Hub, the University’s innovation precinct and commercial gateway, connecting industry, investors and community partners with world-class research expertise and facilities.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success!  Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here. 

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all. 

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on March 15, 2026

Requisition number: 1003393