About the Company
Our client is a purpose-driven global organisation at the forefront of scientific innovation. Our work supports customers across research, healthcare, education, and industry in making the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. By tackling some of the world’s toughest challenges like protecting the environment, ensuring food safety, and advancing research into diseases such as cancer we help drive forward meaningful outcomes on a global scale.
About the Role
We are seeking a Strategic Key Account Manager to partner closely with leading universities, research institutes, and academic organisations across Australia. This role is centred on building deep, trusted relationships that support scientific advancement and enable long-term collaboration within the academic and research community.
Working alongside internal specialists and external research stakeholders, you will develop and execute strategic account plans that align institutional research objectives with tailored solutions. By leveraging the full breadth of our product and service portfolio, you will help enable impactful research outcomes while delivering sustained value to both customers and the organisation.
This position can be based in
Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane with regular travel to engage with stakeholders nationally.
Key Responsibilities - Build and nurture strategic partnerships across key academic accounts, driving long-term collaboration and impact.
- Develop and execute account strategies that align partner objectives with organisational priorities and growth initiatives.
- Lead initiatives that strengthen customer engagement, loyalty, and sustainable business outcomes.
- Act as the primary strategic interface between internal teams and external partners, ensuring alignment and seamless execution.
- Influence cross-functional stakeholders, including product specialists, sales leaders, and support teams to deliver cohesive solutions and maximise account value.
- Monitor account performance, financial metrics, and strategic opportunities to inform decision-making.
- Provide insights on account progress, emerging risks, and growth potential to senior leadership, and identify market trends to guide strategic planning.
About You
Education & Experience - Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in business, science, or a related field.
- 3+ years’ experience in strategic account management, partnerships, or a similar role.
- Demonstrated success working with high-value customers or accounts in a complex environment.
- Prior experience working with or within academic or research institutions is highly regarded.
- Experience in large, global, or decentralized organisations is a plus.
Skills & Attributes - Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
- Strategic thinker with a strong analytical mindset.
- Ability to communicate and negotiate at all levels, including C-suite and academic leadership.
- Proactive, adaptable, and results-focused.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
Work Environment - Regular domestic travel required (approx. 30–40%).
- Must adhere to all workplace health and safety guidelines and contribute to a safe and inclusive culture.
How to Apply If you are motivated by purpose and value the opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organisation supporting the academic and research community, we encourage you to apply.
KE Select is a specialist scientific and medical recruitment partner, supporting organisations across the life sciences, medical, clinical, and healthcare sectors. With deep industry expertise and a relationship-driven approach, we connect high-calibre talent with roles that support innovation, research, and long-term impact across Australia and New Zealand.
