the opportunity

The AAG Policy and Research Manager role is for an experienced, self-directed leader with a good understanding of the key issues in ageing and aged care. The primary purpose of the position is to provide strategic management of the policy and research team and its work. You will also be responsible for delivering specific projects and activities in accordance with our funding agreement. In addition, the Policy and Research Manager will be expected to develop and oversee the strategic communication of AAG policy positions. You will have the opportunity to influence ageing and aged care policy and practice, whilst working collaboratively with thought leaders in the sector.

The focus for the policy and research team’s work has four major areas; informing the development of evidence-based policy in government; promoting evidence-based practice improvements; supporting older people and the diversity of their experiences, needs and views; and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.

This work is currently funded by a grant from the Federal Department of Health. You will manage a small team based in Melbourne. You will also work with AAG members and stakeholders from across Australia.

AAG has systems to support flexible work practices. AAG is an equal opportunity employer and provides a flexible and supportive working environment. This is a full time position reporting to the CEO. The position is mainly working from home but if requested, a maximum of 1 day per week, from AAG National Office in Melbourne.

Key tasks

• Coordinate drafting of the policy and research team’s work plans in line with AAG’s strategic directions in consultation with the rest of the AAG team.
• Contribute to planning and implementation of the budget for the policy and research team grant funding, through collaboration with the CEO and CFO.
• Provide managerial support to policy and research team staff in implementing their work plans.
• Identify and discuss potential policy team staffing issues with CEO and provide management and professional development support where agreed upon with CEO.
• Monitor progress of the policy and research team’s work and provide verbal and written strategic progress reports to the CEO and Board, including drafting progress reports against policy-related grant deliverables.
• Oversee the coordination of policy-related communications and representations to ensure that messaging is clear, consistent and in line with the AAG strategic directions and previous statements.
• Define and manage contracts with external experts delivering specific aspects of funded projects.
• Monitor developments, including member requests for policy development areas, in order to identify areas for future research, policy and advocacy activities.
• Contribute to establishing and maintaining the AAG network of individual experts and collaborating organisations able to contribute to and/or fund AAG research, policy and advocacy activities.
• Represent AAG in a range of forums.

In addition, you will be required to undertake these specific tasks in line with our funding agreement:

• Coordinate and undertake the analyses of the evaluations of all funded AAG activities.
• Undertake systematic evidence assessments of research and grey literature evidence.
• Write reports and position statements based on existing evidence and discussions at AAG workshops.
• Write submissions and other position statements on relevant issues.

Selection criteria

Qualifications

• Post Graduate qualification in research and/or policy
• Preferred PhD in a relevant field.

Knowledge / Experience

• Experience in management and/or leadership of teams in line with strategic directions and work plans.
• A proven track record of providing evidence-informed policy advice, developing policy positions, writing policy papers, and advocating for policy change.
• Experience of conducting systematic reviews and other types of evidence assessments including meta-analyses, rapid evidence assessments and scoping reviews.
• Experience of public speaking to a range of audiences.
• Good understanding of State/Territory and Federal Government policy and programs relevant to ageing and aged care.
• Experience in supporting not-for-profit Boards with their strategic planning, risk management, monitoring and reporting activities related to policy and advocacy work.

Personal Abilities / Aptitude / Skills

• Experience in managing finances and budgeting.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Well-developed research and analysis skills.
• Proven ability to consult and collaborate effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Self-starter with good time management skills.
• Proficient in information and communication technologies.

Other

• Available to travel interstate.
• Willing to provide a police check.
• Authorised to work in Australia for duration and hours of contract (working visa, Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident).

To submit your application, click Apply Now.

A position description is attached.