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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio ManagerJOB DESCRIPTION
Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio Manager Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre
POSITION DETAILS
Classification: Individual Agreement Award agreement: Common Law
Physical location: AEGIC D Block, South Perth, Western Australia
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
Number of positions supervised: 21 [including 10 Laboratory Technician Officers]
SUPERVISOR
Position title: Managing Director
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FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION
This position is a member of the AEGIC Executive Management Team, leading the Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Research Portfolio and National Grain Quality Laboratory and Classification Services to assist Australian export grains to capture new opportunities, maintain market share in traditional markets and enhance the international competitiveness and value. This is to be achieved through the provision of technical expertise in grain quality and processing technology research and by identifying and establishing grains quality and processing technologies research. It will also include providing Australia’s grains industry and research communities with leadership in identifying, prioritising and innovating grain quality research as it relates to export grains. Dissemination of technical information to the value chain concerning the quality and functional attributes of (1) Australia’s medium protein wheats and their use with existing and new processing technologies and (2) Australia’s export barley and (3) other grains and pulses, particularly in higher value end use export markets.
As Manager, this position will contribute, through knowledge of science and technology and innovation, to growing the understanding, value and volume of Australian export grains by interaction with key stakeholders in the value chain from plants breeders to end users of export grains and thereby assist export grain producers to increase profits and meet changing market needs. They will have oversight of technology and grain quality attribute developments (both nationally and internationally) and promote the timely adoption of breeding and processing technologies that enhances the market competitiveness of export grain.
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio ManagerThis position will strategically collaborate and partner to maximise the impact and delivery of grain quality research & development (R&D) to build capacity across Australia and position AEGIC as Australia’s pre-eminent export grains research and development innovation body.
The overall outcome of Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Research Portfolio is the increased value and competitiveness of Australia’s export grain through the accelerated improvement of export grain quality and functionality and the development of innovative processing technologies.
This position will play a key role in helping AEGIC to enhance the international competitiveness and value of Australian export grains through science, technology and innovation and will positively contribute to the development and maintenance of AEGIC’s organisational values and culture.
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ORGANISATIONAL CONTEXT
AEGIC was established during November 2012 with a vision to enhance the international competitiveness and value of Australian export grains through science, technology and innovation. AEGIC’s mission is to enhance the value capture by export grain producers through national leadership and coordination in research directed at export grain quality, functionality, processing innovation and market and supply chain analysis.
AEGIC activities will cover all grains, oilseeds and pulses. AEGIC is the ‘front door’ to Australia’s export grains industry, providing an independent source of Australian grain quality information, analysis and technical support to grain producers, clients of Australian grains and other stakeholders in the export grain supply chain. The headquarters of AEGIC is in Perth, Western Australia; the largest grain exporting state in Australia.
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KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
3.1 Leadership – Grain Quality and Processing Technologies Research and Development Maintain awareness of global trends in grain quality and grain processing technologies through interaction (1) with plant breeders, (2) with grain producers, (3) with exporters and importers [traders] and (4) with end users [millers, food manufacturers and consumers].
Stay abreast of the latest scientific developments in grain quality through researching the scientific and patent literature; competitive intelligence of other grain exporting nations and pipeline developments.
Maintain an awareness of genetically-modified crops and their introduction and segregation issues. Development of strategies to deal with GM issues arising nationally or internationally.
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio ManagerDelivery of the Grain Quality and Processing Technologies Innovation Research Portfolio and associated programs.
Work closely with the Business Development Officer to define deliverables for each of the programs.
Communicate deliverables to appropriate forums from AEGIC’s research program. 3.2 Capacity Building, Linkages and Strategic Partnership
Establish and drive effective linkages with AEGIC‘s R&D programs (particularly the Business Development Officer and AEGIC’s Laboratory Managers).
Identify capacity gaps and opportunities and make recommendations for the appointment of staff as required.
Manage the process for appointing staff as required.
Apply for and attract additional funding, where appropriate.
Undertake high-level liaison with GRDC, university and research institutions to discuss grain quality trends, needs and initiatives.
3.3 Business Development
Examine investment potential and define value propositions to industry and relevance to the strategic capacity of AEGIC for R & D activities.
Work closely with AEGIC’s Strategic Market Intelligence, Requirements and Opportunities Research Portfolio to assist in establishing value propositions around existing or potential research projects.
Propose infrastructure investment(s) and facilitate the establishment of new facilities.
Work with strategic partners to assist in transitioning new businesses to AEGIC. Leverage AEGIC investments with third parties to grow research expenditure on AEGIC identified grain quality research priorities.
Negotiate and establish research and commercialisation agreements with third parties.
3.4 Process Management, Improvement and Innovation
Contribute to the sharing of information and skills within the export-grains related R&D, business and policy discipline.
Represent AEGIC on committees, working parties or inquiries as required.
Direct the work of specialist consultants and assists in the preparation of project specifications as required.
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio ManagerApply risk management principles to all strategies, processes and practices.
Apply relevant safety procedures/guidelines and equal opportunity principles to performance of work.
Secure and document effective IP policies and agreements to enable AEGIC to return value on investments.
Apply the guidelines and principles of the West Australian Public Sector Code of Ethics.
3.5 Human Resource Management
Manage the recruitment, induction, training, mentoring and performance reviews of staff under your supervision.
Where appropriate, facilitate multi-skilling and succession planning to ensure business continuity.
Role model and promote AEGIC’s values; and recognise staff who demonstrate these values.
Ensure all HR processes are compliant with government regulations. 3.6 Other
Undertakes travel (domestic and international) as required. Report timesheets and manage non-compliance.
Other duties as required.
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SELECTION CRITERIA
4.1 LegalAustralian citizenship or permanent resident of Australia as defined by the Commonwealth Immigration Act (if not currently held, must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant’s expense for permanent appointment).
For appointment on a casual or fixed term basis a relevant work visa must be held (if not currently held, must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant’s expense) if not an Australian citizenship or permanent resident of Australia.
4.2 Qualifications
A degree in Agricultural Science or approved equivalent (such as Horticultural Science, Agricultural Business Management, Natural Resource Management).
A current and valid Australian C (car) class motor drivers licence, or equivalent may be required for identified positions (if not currently held, must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant’s expense).
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio Manager4.3 Technical
Demonstrated ability to carry out scientific research activities relevant to the agriculture, food and fibre industries. Emphasis on one or more of the following science disciplines: plant genetics, grain quality, food /food processing.
Sound knowledge and demonstrated technical competency in chemistry laboratories, methods and procedures as they relate to one or more of the following areas: farming systems, farm business analysis and agricultural research and development in relevant agricultural industries.
Demonstrated understanding of Occupational Safety and Health practices in a laboratory and office environment.
Experience in marketing, promoting and selling research and development services. Experience in attracting and securing funds.
Experience in project management skills. 4.4 Individual characteristics
Exhibit a personal commitment to client service, integrity and personal learning. Working within the value system of the organisation including team work, continuous improvement and equity.
4.5 Leadership
Assume a pivotal/important role in achieving an environment within the organisation that provides forward thinking with clearly articulated strategic direction.
The ability to establish networks and communicate effectively with a diverse range of people and culture.
4.6 People Management
Promote a work environment that empowers, motivates and develops the diverse talents of people and ensures an optimum level of appropriately skilled employees. 4.7 Workplace Communication Skills
Well-developed oral and written communication skills; negotiation skills; facilitation skills; ability to develop and maintain relationships and networks; teamwork skills; interpersonal skills and change management abilities.
4.8 Management of Physical and Financial Resources
To ensure that resources including financial, physical, technological and information requirements are available to maintain product/service delivery.
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio Manager4.9 Strategic Development
Recognise opportunities to enhance product/service delivery and to capitalise on these through effective change strategies. The ability to demonstrate conceptual and analytical skills.
4.10 Achievements and Outcomes
Deliver products/services consistent with client needs and defined quality expectations (including timeliness).
4.11 Innovation
Experience in demonstrating and fostering innovative behaviours to deliver innovative outcomes.
4.12 Information Technology
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KEY RESULT AREAS (KRAs) & KEY PRODUCTION INDICATORS (KPIs)
KRA 1 – Grains research & development innovationDevelop and implement the core business activities of the R&D team including strategic positioning of AEGIC as the national co-ordinator and advisor in determining innovation priorities for grain quality and processing technology research for export markets.
KPI 1.1 Evaluation and recommendation of potential new AEGIC research programs by
March 2014.
KPI 1.2 An annual workshop with leading grain quality R & D stakeholders to identify,
evaluate and prioritise potential new grain quality projects.
KPI 1.3 Provide an annual report and recommendations on potential innovative grain
quality-focussed R&D programs for consideration by the AEGIC Board and wider industry research community.
KPI 1.4 Attend and contribute at key Australian and international grain industry forums
and research conferences.
KPI 1.5 Contribute to the delivery of all other actions from the Business Plan on time
and within budget.
KRA 2 – LMA research leadership & co-ordination
Development of an appropriate LMA risk management framework to protect the existing value of Australian export wheat and to leverage additional value on offer.
KPI 2.1 Establish LMA Reference Group by Sept 2013.
KPI 2.2 Economic analysis report due – preliminary July 2013, final Sept 2013. KPI 2.3 Define the LMA co-ordination role and prepare job description by July 2013. KPI 2.4 R&D program scope complete identifying providers, funding and contributions
by July 2013.
KPI 2.5 Development of Communication plan – ongoing. KPI 2.6 Report on LMA research progress to industry annually.
KPI 2.7 Medium-long term: Development of breeding technology and testing
methodologies to assist in the elimination of LMA in Australian bread wheat. A reduction in LMA susceptibility in Australian wheat. Increases in efficiency of selection and improved classification systems.
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio ManagerKRA 3 – Dough Sheeting Technology
Development of dough processing technology to enable the use for bread making of medium protein Australian wheats in export markets.
KPI 3.1 Appropriate IP protection strategy in place (July 2014) and implemented
February 2016.
KPI 3.2 Engagement with industry partners and end users by July 2016.
KPI 3.3 Routine engagement with visiting export country delegations and experts
(ongoing over project life).
KRA 4 – Supporting commercialisation of new barley varieties
Improved market access and opportunities for Australian export malting barley.
KPI 4.1 Barley Australia includes pilot malting into the accreditation process by January
2015.
KPI 4.2 Endorsement by industry through Barley Australia to commence phase 2 of the
Commercial Validation Project by February 2014.
KPI 4.3 An increase in interest/communication from international barley buyers through
AEGIC, Barley Australia and other stakeholders over 2013 levels.
KRA 5 – Grain protein focused research / capacity building
A research and teaching centre ensuring the future of Australian grain protein-focused research capacity.
KPI 5.1 The appointment of the Professor July 2013 and post-doctoral fellow by
October 2013.
KPI 5.2 Research program on functional proteins of wheat for key end products
particularly baking established (including appointment of a post-doc and at least five PhD students by February 2014).
KPI 5.3 The operation of at least one industry-supported project during the first three
years of the Professorship.
KPI 5.4 Specific outputs captured from the Australia-China Joint Centre for Wheat
Improvement, namely the association of molecular markers to break the nexus between yield and grain quality by August 2013.
KPI 5.5 In the second year, drilling down to the specific features of grain quality,
identifying the genetic control of specific aspects of dough formation using Mixograph traces.
KPI 5.6 In the third year, establish proof-of-concept for targeting specific
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio ManagerKRA 6 – Australian wheat cultivars functionalities
Access to future improved wheat cultivars that service premium markets due to desirable food/grain processing and provide distinct competitive advantage for Australian export grains industry.
KPI 6.1 Key Australian breeding lines with Novel ¹S1glutenin introgressed and expressing (2015).
KPI 6.2 Preliminary quality evaluation of the new germplasm achieved (2016).
KPI 6.3 Evaluation in field trials and large scale quality test (2017) (up to 50 lines in various genetic backgrounds). Field trials at a minimum of 2 locations [plot size 4m x 2m]).
KPI 6.4 Satisfaction levels with degree of co-operation and progress from partners, Murdoch University and Grains Research Development Corporation.
KRA 7 – Financial Management
Working with the Manager, Finance and Administration, assist in managing the financial control of the grain quality and processing technology business in a sustainable, timely and professional manner, meeting agreed financial reporting, accountability, auditing, analysis, budgeting and performance requirements.
KPI 7.1 Establish an annual operating budget for the Research Portfolio three months
prior to the end of the current financial year.
KPI 7.2 Report actuals against annual budget on a monthly basis to include programs
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio ManagerKRA 8 – Process management, improvement and innovation
The encouragement of innovation and improvements to processes, relevant to business area, to improve the quality of products and services.
KPI 8.1 Identify, document and manage systems for compliance; stakeholder/client requirements; and any other value creating processes.
KPI 8.2 Meet compliance requirements.
KPI 8.3 Ensure the integrity of the client/end-user database is maintained at all times.
KPI 8.4 Ensure administrative business processes are established that are efficient and scalable with growth of the business.
KPI 8.5 Using structured approaches to innovate, promote creativity and achieve breakthrough performance.
KPI 8.6 Secure and document effective IP policies and agreements to enable AEGIC to return value on investments.
KRA 9 – Client and market focus
Ensure client and market needs are being met and strive for continual improvement in gaining knowledge of clients and markets, managing client relationships and increasing client perception of value.
KPI 9.1 Ensure methodologies have been put in place to ensure clients are provided with an evaluation opportunity on all products and services.
KPI 9.2 Client and market information is used to define current and future needs of the segmented market; and pro-actively design products and services.
KPI 9.3 The client relationship is effectively managed with the provision of a quarterly summary rating of client feedback and an action plan to resolve client concerns.
KPI 9.4 Satisfaction levels of AEGIC’s Board, Managing Director and Managers with the output and quality of grain quality and processing technology programs.
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio ManagerKRA 10 – Business Development
Growing the business in a sustainable manner, increase business (products and services) / revenues based on market opportunity, client needs and financial viability.
KPI 10.1 Work with all Portfolio and Services Managers and other staff as required to continually enhance analytical and reporting methodologies and outcomes.
KPI 10.2 Evidence of the leveraging of partnership opportunities, networks and the use of self-employed, fee-based contractors.
KPI 10.3 Reporting on a regular basis to the MD of; (1) grain technology trends, (2) scientific and patent developments, (3) a strategy around GM.
KPI 10.4 Negotiate and establish research and commercialisation agreements with third parties.
KRA 11 – Human resources management
Managing staff in the team in an efficient, inclusive and professional manner; to determine the required skills and resources; to support professional development and other resources required by staff members to carry out their duties; to role model AEGIC’s values including working constructively and collaboratively with all colleagues.
KPI 11.1 Role model, promote and reinforce AEGIC’s values and ensure the desired behaviours are integrated throughout all systems and processes.
KPI 11.2 Undertake regular performance monitoring and feedback with staff in your team and report outcomes of an annual performance review by the end of March each year.
KPI 11.3 Effectively recruit, select and induct new staff to the team.
KPI 11.4 Ensure your staff have adequate training and development to perform their roles effectively.
KPI 11.5 Ensure all activities comply with regulations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Act (1984) WA, Western Australia Equal Opportunity Act (1984) WA, Privacy Act 1988 and the Fair Work Act (2009).
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WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
Who Frequency Why
Managing Director As required To determine current opportunities, discuss and support overall organisational management. Provide a brief on current and planned business activities. Executive Management Team Twice weekly and as required
To provide leadership to the senior management team and support the office of the Managing Director as required. Identify opportunities and synergies across the business.
Board As required To brief on business area activities/plans.
Laboratory
Technician Officers
As required (minimum weekly)
To plan and manage the business area, monitor progress, safety and quality; monitor resource requirements. National Grain Quality Specialist Team As required (minimum weekly)
To plan and manage the business area, monitor progress, safety and quality; monitor resource requirements. National Grain Classification Services Team As required (minimum weekly)
To plan and manage the business area, monitor progress, safety and quality; monitor resource requirements. Research Portfolio Strategic Markets Intelligence, Requirements & Opportunities Programs Manager
As required To achieve synergies and business improvement across related functional areas.
DAFWA Grains As required Report on achievement of milestones, any potential issues and opportunities.
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DECLARATION
I, , understand that this position description forms the basis of my employment contract with AEGIC and I will endeavour to perform these duties to the best of my ability. I understand that I will be required to actively participate in an annual performance appraisal.
Date Appointed: September 2013
Supervisor: Managing Director
Approved By: Managing Director
Date Issued: September 2013
Date Reviewed: Date Amended: Employee Signed: Date: Managing Director: Date:
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Grain Quality & Processing Technologies Portfolio ManagerAPPENDIX
NATIONAL GRAIN QUALITY LABORATORY AND CLASSIFICATION SERVICES
TEAM STRUCTURE
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER BARLEY MALTING RESEARCH MANAGING DIRECTORNATIONAL GRAIN QUALITY
LABORATORY AND CLASSIFICATION SERVICES
Laboratory Technician Officers (10) (under Laboratory Services Agreement) National Grain Quality Specialist Team (3)
(Wheat Specialist, Laboratory Manager – Wheat, Laboratory Manager Barley) National Grain Classification Services (2)
(Wheat Specialist, Barley Specialist - PMA) + Research Technician
RESEARCH PORTFOLIO
GRAIN QUALITY & PROCESSING TECHNOLOGIES PROGRAMS MANAGER LMA RESEARCH Consultant & Coordinator PROCESSING TECHNOLOGIES Wujun GRAIN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY