Job Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland creates globally transformative impacts through our distinctive strengths in world leading research, scholarship, teaching and collaborative partnerships, inspired by our unique position in Aotearoa New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific.

This opportunity sits within Strategic Engagement, in the Schools and Community Engagement team. The team champions the University's values through meaningful partnerships with schools and communities, supporting students and whānau as they prepare for and transition into tertiary education.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking an experienced secondary middle-level leader to join our team for a six-month fixed-term period, supporting the delivery and development of our Pathways Programme.

This role will assist with overseeing University pathway programmes that support the successful preparation and transition of students into tertiary study. You will contribute to the strategic development and service delivery of pathway initiatives, working across the secondary–tertiary interface to strengthen connections and support equitable student success.

Drawing on your educational leadership experience, you will help build meaningful partnerships with schools and contribute to programmes that create opportunities for students to confidently navigate their journey into university.

This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week), 6-month fixed term position.

The salary range for this roles is $87,000 - $107,500 per annum, depending on skills and experience.

For more detailed information about the role, please review the

Ngā haepapa matua | Key focus areas

• Developing advanced business and organisational capability within a large, complex tertiary institution
• Strengthening analytical capability and strategic decision-making of high-value institutional data
• Collaborating with secondary school leaders across diverse contexts, building strong cross-school and cross-sector networks
• Engaging meaningfully with school communities, deepening understanding of equity, transition pathways, and student success factors
• Provide subject-matter expertise in relation to University Entrance (UE), supporting schools and whānau to navigate UE requirements with confidence
• Engaging with Principals across partnership schools to build insight into varied school contexts and strengthen leadership practice

He kōrero mōu | About you

This programme will suit a secondary middle-level leader who:

• Has a strong interest in system-level thinking and cross-sector collaboration
• Is motivated to deepen their understanding of the secondary–tertiary interface
• Brings curiosity, sound judgement, and the ability to work effectively across multiple stakeholder groups

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University is committed to supporting your career with:

• Excellent campus facilities
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Employer superannuation scheme

In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and several discounts on internal and external services.

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by 11:59pm, Thursday, 27 August 2026 Please include your cover letter and CV.

For further information, please email Liletina Vaka (liletina.vaka@auckland.ac.nz) or Katalina Ma (katalina.ma@auckland.ac.nz). Please not while we are happy to answer your questions, we do not accept applications via email.

#LI-DNI

Additional Information

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+ , people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz