General Manager

General role description

General Managers in the health and medical research sector oversee the operations, strategy, and performance of an organisation, research centre, or major program area. They lead multidisciplinary teams, manage budgets and resources, and ensure projects align with organisational goals. General Managers often build relationships with funders, government, industry partners, and other stakeholders to advance research initiatives and support growth and sustainability.

Key tasks and responsibilities

  • Provide strategic and operational leadership for the organisation or business unit
  • Oversee budgets, financial performance, and resource allocation
  • Manage staff, including recruitment, development, and performance management
  • Develop and implement policies, procedures, and systems to support effective operations
  • Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including funders and partners
  • Support the development of research strategies, partnerships, and funding opportunities
  • Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory, ethical, and governance requirements

Workplace settings

  • Universities and Medical Research Institutes
  • Government, not-for-profit, peak body and advocacy organisations involved in research
  • Hospitals and healthcare services
  • Pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies
  • Contract Research Organisations (CROs)

Required qualifications

  • A degree in science, health, business, or a related field
  • Postgraduate qualifications (e.g. MBA, MPH, PhD) are often preferred

Other notable requirements

  • Extensive leadership and management experience, ideally in health or research sectors
  • Strong financial and operational management skills
  • Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and drive strategic priorities
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
  • Understanding of governance, compliance, and regulatory frameworks in research and healthcare

Common Next Roles