Description:
Help drive the future of research innovation...At Valrose, we connect visionary leaders with purpose-driven organisations tackling some of the world’s most complex problems. We’re currently partnering with a world-class research infrastructure provider that powers breakthroughs across climate science, space exploration, AI, and quantum computing.
We’re looking for an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) — or a senior operations leader with a strong understanding of research and digital infrastructure — to help scale and future-proof one of Australia’s most critical research environments.
What you’ll be doing...
You'll lead and shape the operational strategy behind nationally significant infrastructure, ensuring high availability, security, and reliability across facilities, IT operations, and service delivery.
This hands-on, high-impact role involves overseeing cross-functional operational teams—from infrastructure and helpdesk to stakeholder outreach and user experience—and representing the centre in key strategic and national collaboration forums.
You’ll work closely with the executive team and technical leaders to guide strategic planning, support large-scale research initiatives, and maintain a strong focus on continuous improvement.
You’ll bring with you...
- Experience leading operational teams within a complex or technical environment (e.g. research, university, high-performance computing, or large-scale infrastructure).
- Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities, with a track record of driving operational performance and service excellence.
- A deep understanding of digital infrastructure, stakeholder engagement, and governance frameworks.
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills — you’re comfortable representing your organisation across government, industry, and academic settings.
- Strategic foresight, with the ability to shape planning, budgeting, and resource management initiatives.
- A strong commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and high-quality service delivery.
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About working with Valrose - We listen. We understand. We solve.
Valrose consultants work with you to understand where your character, aspirations, and skills will be most valued.
We will understand your priorities, whether financial, career progression, workplace culture or technology-related. We will discuss the opportunity thoroughly, how it aligns with your career goals, and guide you through the recruitment process, providing expert advice and support from the initial application to the offer.
We are trusted advisors to our clients, acting as an extension of their business.
We genuinely care about our candidates and love helping connect people with great opportunities. If you would like to understand more about the above role, please do get in touch.
Our Values
Humanity – Success – Integrity – Accountability – Curiosity
Diversity – Welcome it. Entrust it. Celebrate it.
Within our business, we have created an environment where anyone from any background can bring their authentic self to work, celebrating our differences whilst working towards a common purpose. We believe this is not just the ethical thing to do; it's the intelligent thing to do. Diversity drives innovation!
The Valrose team enjoys building inclusive cultures and promoting equality for all.
- 2024 - Sourcr Award for Best Agency for ICT, WA
- 2023 - Seek SARA Award Finalist for Outstanding Agency
- 2023 - RCSA Award Finalist for Outstanding Agency
- 2022 - Sourcr Award for Best Agency for Technology, WA
- 2021 - Seek SARA Award Finalist for Excellence in Candidate Engagement
#SCR-Mike-Quigley
Additional information
- Lead and manage infrastructure, site/facilities, help desk and service delivery
- Partner with the CEO and executive team to shape and execute strategic goals.
- Develop and implement operational frameworks, procedures, and best practices