Chief Executive Officer & Director Full Time

QIMR Berghofer, Brisbane, Queensland
Shape the next chapter of a world class medical research institute.

QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading translational medical research institute focused on improving health by developing new diagnostics, better treatments and prevention strategies, specifically in the areas of Cancer, Infection and Inflammation, Brain and Mental Health, and Population Health. Based in Herston, Brisbane and working in close collaboration with clinicians and other research institutes, QIMR Berghofer is home to almost 1,000 scientists, professional staff, students and visiting researchers, based in the vibrant Herston Health Precinct.

Why QIMR Berghofer?

• A mission driven institute with the scale, reputation, and partnerships to convert scientific excellence into societal impact.
• Opportunity to shape the Institute’s transformation adapting to a changing funding and competitive landscape while preserving independence and value.
• Work with a committed Council, executive team, and research leaders who share a unified ambition for global recognition through measurable outcomes.

About the Opportunity:
Reporting to the Council, the Director & CEO provides visionary, accountable leadership setting strategy, championing research excellence and translation, and ensuring the Institute’s long-term financial sustainability. You will be the public face of QIMR Berghofer, cultivating trusted partnerships with government, industry, donors, and the community, and fostering an inclusive, high performing culture across the Institute.

Role Purpose / Responsibilities:

• In collaboration with Council, set and deliver strategy that positions QIMR Berghofer as a world class centre for medical research, innovation, and translation, aligned with government policy, community needs, and global health priorities.
• Champion research excellence and impact, enabling translation into clinical practice, policy, and commercial outcomes while upholding the highest standards of governance, ethics, and integrity.
• Secure diversified revenue streams including but not limited to government funding, commercialisation, philanthropy, partnerships, and, oversee transparent, efficient resource management.
• Lead stakeholder engagement and advocacy, strengthening QIMR Berghofer’s influence and reputation nationally and internationally.
• Inspire people and culture, developing senior leaders, supporting staff wellbeing, inclusion, and professional growth, and embedding accountability.
• Ensure robust governance, risk, and compliance frameworks, providing timely advice and reporting to Council.

Essential requirements:

• Executive Leadership & Change Management: Demonstrated success leading large complex organisations through transformation and adapting to evolving environments.
• Research & Translational Impact: Strong scientific research background with credibility in the field plus experience translating research into practical outcomes.
• Financial & Strategic Acumen: Proven ability in securing diversified funding, managing budgets, and balancing bold growth with financial sustainability and responsible risk-taking.
• People & Culture Leadership: Skilled in building inclusive, ethical cultures, developing talent, and fostering teamwork.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy: Effective communicator and relationship builder with government, industry, donors, and community; ability to represent and advocate for the organisation.
• A Global Perspective: Experience forming international partnerships and securing global funding; experience in APAC and Europe desirable.
• Outcome Orientation & Adaptability: Focused on delivering measurable results and comfortable evolving strategies in response to change.

How to apply:
You should include a covering letter and an up-to-date resume which clearly detail your skills and experience as relevant to this role. Please submit your application to [QIMRBCEO@KornFerry.com].

For further information:
To request for Position Description and enquiry, please contact Grace Tan and Jonathan Lai from Korn Ferry at [QIMRBCEO@KornFerry.com].

Closing Date: 25th January 2026, 11:59 am (AEST).
Our email inbox [QIMRBCEO@KornFerry.com] will not be monitored from 20th December 2025 to 11th January 2026. We will review and respond to all applications and enquiries after the 12thof January 2026. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

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Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates, and will refer candidates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected basis. Artificial Intelligence tools may be used in connection with the recruitment process for this position.

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