Regional Connector

Regional Connector

SMART Regional Incubator

• Fixed Term to 05/07/2027, full-time
• $ 103,761 to $ 116,176 per annum HEO7 + 17% super
• Salary packaging options available
• Generous leave entitlements including Christmas shutdown, parental, cultural, gender affirmation & domestic violence
• 5 weeks annual leave + Christmas shutdown leave
• Armidale based role.
• On campus state of the art sporting and athletic facilities (Sport UNE)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellbeing support
• Diverse and supportive workplace with UNE Ally Network, Equity Committee, Queer Space

About the role

The Regional Connector is based in the Armidale CBD at the University of New England’s new premises called NOVA. From this space the Regional Connector provides focused and targeted support to business across the New England Northwest, with a special focus on Armidale and surrounding communities. This role is about capacity building entrepreneurs’ learning through programs, event facilitation and connections to mentors and other stakeholders. This role is responsible for the overall operation of NOVA and the organisation of events to meet the needs of new and established entrepreneurs will help them take their ideas and business to the next level.

About you

• You are a connector at heart, someone who thrives on building relationships, championing local business, and making things happen in your community.
• You bring experience in business development, program delivery, or stakeholder engagement, and you understand what it takes to support entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey.
• You are comfortable working both independently and collaboratively, and you know how to bring the right people together at the right time.
• You are organised and outcomes-focused, with the ability to manage budgets, records, and reporting without losing sight of the bigger picture.
• You communicate with confidence and clarity, whether you're promoting a program, writing a report, or presenting to government and industry stakeholders.
• You are passionate about regional communities and genuinely excited by the opportunity to grow the innovation ecosystem right here in the New England Northwest.
• You see the potential in people and places, and you have the drive to turn that potential into real outcomes.

If you are someone who loves variety, values impact and wants to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of regional business and entrepreneurship - this role was made for you.

About the Department

The UNE SMART Region Incubator (SRI) a leading university-based regional incubator, fostering a connected ecosystem of innovation across The New England/Northwest Region. The SRI catalyses commercialisation, accelerates businesses, and drives start-up and scale-up support across regional communities. With operational hubs in New England Northwest and strategic partnerships extending nationally, the SRI champions breakthrough solutions in agriculture, health, energy, environment, and creative industries, delivering measurable commercial returns and regional economic impact.

Enquiries

To discuss this role please contact Director UNE SMART Region Incubator Cameron Turner phone: 0437448773 email: [email protected]

• If you require any adjustments or support to fully participate—such as an alternative format for the application form—please contact your Talent Acquisition Consultant at [email protected] or on 02 6773 3705.
• If you have a disability and would like a confidential conversation about working at UNE, you are welcome to contact our Health, Safety and Wellbeing Team.

Please visit www.une.edu.au/jobs-at-unefor further information about this position and other career opportunities at UNE.

To Apply

Closing Date: Midnight Sunday 28 June 2026

Reference No: 225259

Submit your application through www.une.edu.au/jobs-at-une and refer to vacancy ref 225259

Your application should be comprised of:

• Covering letter;
• Responses to selection criteria
• Current CV.

Applicants must have appropriate Australian work rights for the duration of this position.

About Armidale

Armidale is an attractive and vibrant city that combines all the features of a bustling regional town centre with the tranquility of rural living. It boasts gourmet restaurants and cafes, boutique shopping, quality schools and sporting facilities. Surrounded by mountain gorges, waterfalls and national parks, Armidale’s natural beauty and distinct seasons make it an ideal place to live and thrive. To find out more, visit https://www.visitarmidale.com.au/experience . Information about relocation assistance.

UNE: A Diverse and Inclusive Workplace

At UNE, we believe our strength comes from the diversity of our people and the unique perspectives they bring. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is valued and empowered to contribute their best.

We warmly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, individuals with lived experience of mental health or disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQIA+.

UNE is committed to enabling all staff to thrive and ensuring that our LGBTIQIA+ community and staff from all cultures feel included and respected. Our UNE Ally Network is here for staff and students and for any questions, contact our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Consultant.

About Our Process

At UNE, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of this role and align with our values: Be Bold, Be Kind, Be Accountable, Be Connected. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome. The successful candidate will be required to undertake pre-employment checks prior to commencing in this role as indicated in the position statement.

If you are the preferred candidate for this role you will be required to provide UNE with a National Police Check prior to the university making an offer of employment. Please note that people with criminal records are not automatically excluded from applying for this position (unless there is a particular requirement under law).

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