CourseFinder logo – Australia’s leading course comparison site

Select Industry

Courses by Study Type

Career Advice

How to Become a Development Manager: Australian Careers in Business Management

2 Courses

Icon
How to Become a Development Manager: Australian Careers in Business Management
How to Become a Development Manager: Australian Careers in Business Management

Displaying 2 of 2 courses

Filters

Clear all

Icon

Location

Icon

Industry

Show more...

Icon

Study Mode

Show more...

Icon

Payment Option

Show more...

Icon

Qualification

Show more...

Icon

Course Provider

Show more...


On this page

What is a Development Manager?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Development Manager?

The role of a Development Manager is both dynamic and rewarding, offering professionals the opportunity to lead and innovate within various industries. Development Managers are responsible for planning, organising, and directing research and development activities, ensuring that projects align with the strategic goals of their organisation. They play a crucial role in fostering innovation, driving product development, and enhancing operational efficiency, making them integral to the success of their teams and companies.

In their day-to-day responsibilities, Development Managers oversee the implementation of research strategies and policies, guiding teams through the complexities of project management. They are tasked with developing and prioritising research projects that support both commercial and policy objectives. This involves leading major research initiatives, coordinating the efforts of other research professionals, and ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget. Their analytical skills are essential as they assess the effectiveness of research activities and interpret results to recommend product and service innovations.

Collaboration is a key aspect of the Development Manager’s role. They work closely with various stakeholders, including senior management, researchers, and external partners, to provide insights and advice on research and development options. By staying abreast of leading-edge developments in relevant fields, they can assess implications for their organisation and drive strategic decisions. This position not only requires strong leadership and communication skills but also a passion for continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Overall, a career as a Development Manager is an exciting pathway for those who thrive in a collaborative environment and are eager to make a significant impact through innovation. With a median age of 46 and a balanced gender representation, this profession is welcoming to diverse talents, offering a fulfilling career that combines strategic thinking with practical application in research and development.

Icon

Career snapshots For Development Managers

Research and Development Managers play a crucial role in planning, organising, and directing research activities within organisations. This career is essential for driving innovation and ensuring that research aligns with commercial and policy objectives.

  • Average Age: 46 years
  • Gender Distribution: 49% female
  • Average Hours Worked: 44 hours per week
  • Median Weekly Earnings: $2,448
  • Unemployment Rate: Low, with a steady demand for skilled professionals
  • Current Employment: Approximately 18,900 individuals are employed in this role
  • Projected Growth: An annual increase of about 1,000 positions is expected

This career is well-suited for individuals with strong analytical skills and a passion for innovation. As industries continue to evolve, the demand for Research and Development Managers is likely to grow, making it a promising field for future job seekers.

What will I do?

A Development Manager plays a crucial role in guiding and overseeing research and development activities within an organisation. This position involves strategic planning, project management, and collaboration with various teams to ensure that innovative solutions are developed and implemented effectively. With a focus on both commercial and policy developments, a Development Manager is essential for driving growth and maintaining a competitive edge in the market.

  • Determining, implementing and monitoring research and development strategies, policies and plans – This involves setting clear objectives and ensuring alignment with the organisation’s goals.
  • Developing and implementing research projects, priorities and targets – The Development Manager identifies key areas for research that support commercial and policy advancements.
  • Leading major research projects and coordinating activities of other research workers – This includes managing teams and resources to ensure successful project execution.
  • Assessing the benefits and monitoring the costs and effectiveness of research and development activities – The manager evaluates the return on investment and overall impact of R&D initiatives.
  • Interpreting results of research projects and recommending associated product and service development innovations – This task involves analysing data to inform future product and service enhancements.
  • Providing advice on research and development options available to the organisation – The Development Manager offers insights and recommendations based on industry trends and organisational needs.
  • Monitoring leading-edge developments in relevant disciplines and assessing implications for the organisation – Staying informed about advancements in the field is crucial for strategic planning.
  • Publishing results of significant research projects – Sharing findings with stakeholders and the broader community helps to establish credibility and promote transparency.

What skills do I need?

A successful Development Manager must possess a diverse set of skills that enable them to effectively plan, organise, and oversee research and development activities within an organisation. Strong leadership abilities are essential, as they will be responsible for guiding teams through complex projects and ensuring that objectives are met. Additionally, excellent communication skills are crucial for articulating research findings and collaborating with various stakeholders, including researchers, executives, and clients. Analytical thinking is also vital, as Development Managers must assess the effectiveness of research initiatives and make data-driven decisions to enhance project outcomes.

Furthermore, a solid understanding of project management principles is necessary to develop and implement research strategies that align with organisational goals. This includes the ability to set priorities, manage budgets, and monitor progress. Familiarity with industry trends and advancements is equally important, as it allows Development Managers to stay ahead of the curve and leverage new opportunities for innovation. Ultimately, a combination of technical expertise, strategic vision, and interpersonal skills will empower Development Managers to drive successful research initiatives and contribute to their organisation’s growth.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong leadership and team management skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
  • Strategic thinking and planning capabilities
  • Project management expertise
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Knowledge of research and development processes
  • Ability to assess and manage budgets
  • Familiarity with industry trends and innovations
  • Experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship building
  • Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation
  • Adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic environment
  • Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

CourseFinder makes every effort to ensure the information we provide is correct at the time of publication. We welcome your input to help keep our career profiles as accurate and up to date as possible. All queries and feedback will be taken into consideration as we conduct periodic reviews of our content. Add your voice to the conversation!

Career Outcomes