Head of Commercial Partnerships – Institute for Chronic Disease Research
- The University of Waikato
- New Zealand, WKO
- Sep 8, 2026
Job Description:
Lead commercial partnerships for a new research institute tackling the complex challenges of chronic disease in Aotearoa and globally.
Shape the commercial future of chronic disease research
Build global health and life sciences partnerships
Translate research into real-world health impact
Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role
This newly created role offers an exciting opportunity to help shape the commercial future of the Institute for Chronic Disease Research (ICDR) – a new interdisciplinary research institute bringing together expertise to address the interconnected drivers of chronic disease.
The ICDR brings together five research pillars – Respiratory Disease, Cancer, Heart Disease, Diabetes and Arthritis – with platforms spanning clinical research and trials, preventive health, mental health and wellbeing, AI and technology, Māori and Pacific health, health systems, and infrastructure and workforce development. This unique model creates significant potential for high-value partnerships across the health and life sciences sector.
As Head of Commercial Partnerships, you will develop and deliver the ICDR's commercial partnership strategy, connecting its research capability with pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, digital health and clinical research organisations in New Zealand and internationally.
You will identify and secure strategic partnerships, grow commercial revenue and create pathways from research to impact through industry-funded research, clinical trials, licensing, co-funded programmes and other collaborative opportunities. You will also help connect the ICDR with the University's wider innovation ecosystem, including the Hiko Hub and NZ Graduate School of Medicine.
This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of health research, industry and innovation, building relationships with senior leaders across the global health and life sciences sector while working alongside leading researchers and clinicians.
This is a permanent, full-time position of 37.5 hours per week, based at our Hamilton Campus. A competitive compensation and benefits package is available, reflecting the skills, knowledge and experience you bring to the position.
For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Florian Spoerl, [email protected]. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.
Ko wai koe? – Who are you?
You will be a commercially minded health or life sciences professional with the credibility and networks to build strategic partnerships and translate research capability into commercial opportunity.
You will bring:
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as life sciences, biomedical science, health sciences, commerce or business.
5–10 years' experience in commercial partnerships, business development or strategic account management within pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device or clinical research sectors.
A proven record of building high-value partnerships, achieving commercial outcomes and navigating international health industry ecosystems.
Strong commercial acumen, including partnership structuring, proposal development, pricing, contract negotiation, IP and licensing.
Excellent communication and stakeholder skills, with a commitment to health equity, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Māori and Pacific health priorities.
Experience in a university or research institute, clinical trial partnerships, health research funding, health AI, digital health, medtech or technology commercialisation would be advantageous. Established networks across the health and life sciences sector would also be highly valued.
Don’t meet every single requirement? Research shows that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At The University of Waikato, we’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and genuine workplace. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t perfectly match every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply.
Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?
The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato is a research-intensive university providing a globally connected, innovative and inclusive experience in an environment characterised by a commitment to diversity, respect for Indigenous knowledge and strong community engagement.
The ICDR represents a strategic investment in health research at a time when chronic health conditions impose a significant economic and social burden and health research funding is increasingly prioritised. Its connections with the NZ Graduate School of Medicine and Hiko Hub provide further opportunities for research translation, innovation and commercial engagement.
He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?
This is a unique opportunity to help establish the commercial ecosystem around a new interdisciplinary research institute and influence how research translates into better health outcomes and economic impact.
You will have the opportunity to:
Build strategic relationships across global health and life sciences.
Connect industry challenges with multidisciplinary chronic disease research.
Develop partnerships spanning research, clinical trials and innovation.
Create commercial pathways through licensing, collaboration and co-funded programmes.
Help position Waikato as a leading partner in chronic disease research and health innovation.
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.
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 September 29, 2026
Requisition number: 1003881
The University of Waikato holds a special place in the New Zealand university system. Since its inception in 1964 when it was created by the demands of the local community, the University has shown a commitment to innovation and to...
Job ID:
Location:
Job Views:
Employment Type:
Job Description:
Lead commercial partnerships for a new research institute tackling the complex challenges of chronic disease in Aotearoa and globally.
Shape the commercial future of chronic disease research
Build global health and life sciences partnerships
Translate research into real-world health impact
Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role
This newly created role offers an exciting opportunity to help shape the commercial future of the Institute for Chronic Disease Research (ICDR) – a new interdisciplinary research institute bringing together expertise to address the interconnected drivers of chronic disease.
The ICDR brings together five research pillars – Respiratory Disease, Cancer, Heart Disease, Diabetes and Arthritis – with platforms spanning clinical research and trials, preventive health, mental health and wellbeing, AI and technology, Māori and Pacific health, health systems, and infrastructure and workforce development. This unique model creates significant potential for high-value partnerships across the health and life sciences sector.
As Head of Commercial Partnerships, you will develop and deliver the ICDR's commercial partnership strategy, connecting its research capability with pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, digital health and clinical research organisations in New Zealand and internationally.
You will identify and secure strategic partnerships, grow commercial revenue and create pathways from research to impact through industry-funded research, clinical trials, licensing, co-funded programmes and other collaborative opportunities. You will also help connect the ICDR with the University's wider innovation ecosystem, including the Hiko Hub and NZ Graduate School of Medicine.
This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of health research, industry and innovation, building relationships with senior leaders across the global health and life sciences sector while working alongside leading researchers and clinicians.
This is a permanent, full-time position of 37.5 hours per week, based at our Hamilton Campus. A competitive compensation and benefits package is available, reflecting the skills, knowledge and experience you bring to the position.
For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Florian Spoerl, [email protected]. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.
Ko wai koe? – Who are you?
You will be a commercially minded health or life sciences professional with the credibility and networks to build strategic partnerships and translate research capability into commercial opportunity.
You will bring:
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as life sciences, biomedical science, health sciences, commerce or business.
5–10 years' experience in commercial partnerships, business development or strategic account management within pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device or clinical research sectors.
A proven record of building high-value partnerships, achieving commercial outcomes and navigating international health industry ecosystems.
Strong commercial acumen, including partnership structuring, proposal development, pricing, contract negotiation, IP and licensing.
Excellent communication and stakeholder skills, with a commitment to health equity, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Māori and Pacific health priorities.
Experience in a university or research institute, clinical trial partnerships, health research funding, health AI, digital health, medtech or technology commercialisation would be advantageous. Established networks across the health and life sciences sector would also be highly valued.
Don’t meet every single requirement? Research shows that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At The University of Waikato, we’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and genuine workplace. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t perfectly match every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply.
Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?
The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato is a research-intensive university providing a globally connected, innovative and inclusive experience in an environment characterised by a commitment to diversity, respect for Indigenous knowledge and strong community engagement.
The ICDR represents a strategic investment in health research at a time when chronic health conditions impose a significant economic and social burden and health research funding is increasingly prioritised. Its connections with the NZ Graduate School of Medicine and Hiko Hub provide further opportunities for research translation, innovation and commercial engagement.
He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?
This is a unique opportunity to help establish the commercial ecosystem around a new interdisciplinary research institute and influence how research translates into better health outcomes and economic impact.
You will have the opportunity to:
Build strategic relationships across global health and life sciences.
Connect industry challenges with multidisciplinary chronic disease research.
Develop partnerships spanning research, clinical trials and innovation.
Create commercial pathways through licensing, collaboration and co-funded programmes.
Help position Waikato as a leading partner in chronic disease research and health innovation.
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.
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 September 29, 2026
Requisition number: 1003881
Posted:
