Purpose -This article outlines the experience and approach of an Australian university in developing and managing education program partnerships within industry. Design/methodology/approach -Describes how the university has established a specialist Strategic Partnerships unit for managing the customisation and delivery of postgraduate award programs and executive education to industry. Discusses some of the key issues that have contributed to the management of industry partnerships. Findings -Some of the key issues that have contributed to the management of industry partnerships include project management of industry programs and flexibility in developing and delivering education programs to industry from a university perspective. Originality/value -Provides an illustration of the growth of university and corporate education partnerships in an Australian context.