A. Strategic and Operational Leadership

• Collaborate with the ED and executive team to develop and implement strategic plans aligned with the institution’s research and academic goals.
• Translate strategic objectives into actionable operational plans and performance metrics.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across departments to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

B. Research Operations and Grant Management

• Oversee the administration of research programs, including grant lifecycle management—from proposal development and submission to post-award compliance and reporting.
• Ensure alignment of research activities with institutional priorities and funding agency requirements.
• Develop and maintain systems for tracking grant performance, budgets, and deliverables.
• Build capacity within research teams for successful grant acquisition and management.
• Liaise with funding agencies, donors, and collaborators to ensure transparency and accountability.

C. Financial Oversight

• Lead budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support research and institutional growth.
• Monitor financial performance and ensure fiscal responsibility across departments.
• Oversee grant funding processes, including budgeting, expenditure tracking, and financial reporting.
• Ensure transparent and efficient procurement processes aligned with donor and institutional policies. 

D. Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure institutional compliance with local and international research regulations, ethics, and governance standards.
• Develop and maintain policies related to research integrity, data protection, and intellectual property.
• Manage institutional risk, including safety protocols for research activities.

E. Human Resources and Talent Development

• Lead recruitment, development, and retention strategies for research and administrative staff.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture that supports innovation and professional growth.
• Oversee performance management and staff development programs.

F. Infrastructure and Technology

• Manage facilities, IT systems, and operational support services to ensure optimal functioning of research and administrative activities.
• Drive digital transformation initiatives to enhance data management, collaboration, and operational efficiency.

G. Facilities Management 

• Manage facilities' physical infrastructure and ensure safe, functional, and sustainable workspaces.
• Promote environmentally sustainable practices.

H. Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

• Cultivate relationships with academic institutions, government agencies, industry partners, and funding bodies.
• Represent the institution in external forums, conferences, and strategic partnerships.
• Support fundraising and donor engagement efforts related to research and institutional development.

• Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role, preferably within research, academic, or nonprofit organisation.
• Extensive experience in grant management, including proposal development, budgeting, compliance, and reporting.
• Strong understanding of research administration, compliance, and funding mechanisms.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, organisational development, and operational management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Advanced degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or a relevant discipline; MBA preferred.

Preferred Skills

• Experience managing multidisciplinary research programs and teams.
• Familiarity with national and international funding agencies.
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks governing research ethics and data protection.
• Ability to navigate complex organisational structures and drive cross-functional collaboration.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align business development with institutional goals.
• Relationship Management: Skilled at building trust and long-term partnerships.
• Entrepreneurial Drive: Proactive and results-oriented approach to identifying new opportunities.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Ability to inspire collaboration and build team capacity.
• Communication and Persuasion: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Integrity and Accountability: High ethical standards and commitment to transparency.

• Attractive base salary and performance-linked incentives.
• Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage.
• Relocation and settling-in assistance (for candidates residing outside of Cambodia).
• Professional development and travel opportunities.
• Flexible and inclusive work environment encouraging innovation and collaboration.
• Opportunity to shape the growth of one of Southeast Asia’s most respected research institutes and to contribute directly to Cambodia’s development trajectory.

Interested candidates should submit:

A cover letter outlining motivation and relevant experience.

A detailed CV highlighting achievements in business development and partnerships; and

Names and contact details of three referees.

Applications should be addressed to:

The Executive Director

Cambodia Development Resource Institute (CDRI)

Email: [netra@cdri.org.kh]

Website: www.cdri.org.kh