Research Program Head - Donor Science and System Optimisation

• Lead research that strengthens Australia’s blood and plasma supply. Influence organisational strategy through behavioural, population and systems-based research.
• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team of researchers and specialists.
• $190k – $200k FTE + superannuation + salary packaging
• Flexible location: Melbourne, Brisbane or Sydney

Discover life-giving possibilities 

Lifeblood is more than just a job or a career, it’s an opportunity to be part of something that matters. As an organisation, our purpose is simple: to give life. Together, we want to help you build a fulfilling career with Lifeblood. 

About the role  

Lifeblood's Strategic Transformation & Readiness team is strengthening its capability across strategy, transformation and delivery to help Lifeblood optimise today and build for tomorrow - exploring new opportunities and creating lasting value for Lifeblood and the communities we serve.

This is a unique opportunity to lead research that influences both strategy and operational decision-making, while helping shape the future of Australia's blood and biological products supply. As the leader of our Donor Science and System Optimisation Research Program, you’ll shape the research agenda that helps Lifeblood better understand donor behaviour, participation trends and supply system performance.

Reporting to the Director Strategy and Research, you’ll lead a multidisciplinary team and a strategically important portfolio focused on donor engagement, population insights, operational optimisation and long-term supply sustainability. Your work will directly influence organisational strategy and help ensure Lifeblood can continue delivering life-giving outcomes for communities across Australia.

Sound interesting? Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Expertise in behavioural science, customer or consumer research, population health, public health, social science, health systems research, service design, market research or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams, set clear direction and deliver impactful results.
• Experience leading complex research, insight and strategy or translational programs.
• Strong understanding of human behaviour, participation drivers, customer engagement, population trends, community engagement or system performance.
• Experience using quantitative and qualitative research to inform strategy, policy, service delivery or operational improvement.
• Proven ability to influence and collaborate across operational, customer-facing, clinical, policy, research or corporate environments.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement, strategic thinking and communication skills.
• Experience in behavioural interventions, customer experience, public health, social marketing, participation programs, operational improvement or service optimisation will be highly regarded. 

Thrive in a diverse culture that cares for your wellbeing 

We place our employee's well-being at the forefront and express gratitude and care for one another. As an Australian Workplace Equality Index recognised employer and one of Australia’s menopause-friendly organisations, we celebrate diversity and support all our people.

In addition to being a part of an organisation that is the heartbeat of the nation, you will have access to the following:

• Access to salary packaging with an option to package up to $15,900 for living expenses and $2,650 for meals and entertainment
• 14 weeks paid parental leave - no waiting period for either parent
• Ability to purchase additional annual leave
• Discounted private health cover with fantastic corporate benefit
• Discounted access to 1,430+ gyms & pools all over Australia
• Employee Assistance Program; Free, 24/7 and confidential health, safety and wellbeing support
• Plus, many more!

Is Lifeblood your reason? Apply now and discover a career filled with life-changing possibilities.

Next steps 

We’re proud to be a Circle Back Initiative Employer for 2026 and commit to respond to every applicant. You’ll hear from us once your application has been reviewed.

Have a question about the role or do you need support or adjustments during any stage of the recruitment process? Email Sami, our AI Careers Assistant, at careers@redcrossblood.org.au. Sami can help with common questions, and if your question needs more support, it will be escalated to our Talent Acquisition team.

Please note: we can’t accept applications sent directly to this email address.

This vacancy is being managed directly by Lifeblood’s Talent Acquisition team. We won’t be accepting applications from external recruitment agencies for this role.