Waipapa Taumata Rau| The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s pre-eminent University, with a turnover of $1.3bn, including research revenue of over $300m generated across eight diverse faculties and two research institutes. With over 6,000 staff and 45,000 students, the University of Auckland is one of New Zealand’s most significant and complex entities.

About the team | Mō tō mātou rōpū 

We create 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 and our unique contribution to fair, ethical and sustainable societies.

Respect and Integrity, Excellence and Service underpin our commitment to positively impact society, and to the advancement and exploration of knowledge. Our actions reflect a foundational relationship with tangata whenua and our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi through the principles of Manaakitanga – Caring for those around us in the way we relate to each other; Whanaungatanga – Recognising the importance of kinship and lasting relationships; Kaitiakitanga – Valuing stewardship and guardianship and our relationship with the natural world.

The opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi

An exciting opportunity has emerged to appoint a new Chief of Staff for the Office of the Vice Chancellor.

The Chief of Staff works closely with the Vice-Chancellor and members of the University Executive Committee on the achievement of the University’s strategic goals. They provide strategic advice and support to the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and plays a key role in managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders across the sector, government and community. The Chief of Staff works with the relevant teams to support the management and delivery of the Office’s strategic priorities and projects, leads key staff in the Vice-Chancellor’s Office and provides leadership to the family of roles that deliver research and policy advisory services to members of the University Executive Committee.

They also operate strategically and tactically, identifying risks, anticipating and averting issues, solving problems and mediating disputes, before they are brought to the Vice-Chancellor for consideration, decision or action. This is achieved through the application of sound judgment, expert communication and influencing skills and the ability to analyse complex and critical issues to prioritise and identify solutions.

Some key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Advice and Support
• Professional Support
• Continuous Improvement
• Stakeholder Management

For more information please see Position Description

About you | He kōrero mōu

You will be an experienced senior advisor with clear evidence of your ability to build successful business partnerships and drive strategic direction and effective service cultures. This is a senior leadership position working with a collegial and effective executive team and a unique role that requires strong skills in influencing and driving collaboration. High-level communication ability is essential, with verbal, written and interpersonal skills integral to success in this role.

Overall, you must possess the skills and management experience to prove effective within a large complex organisation. Project management and change management experience are also vital to the role and you should have a proven ability to develop and implement strategies in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment. Your capacity for discretion, confidentiality, and providing trusted advice will be exceptional.

What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

The University of Auckland is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices and a culture that supports work-life balance
• Career development programmes
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave
• 6.75% superannuation scheme

For more information please visit our Staff Benefits page.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono |

Applications should be submitted online, before the closing date of Sunday 19th June, 2022 and include a current CV and cover letter outlining what strengths you will bring to this role.

Please note, we are unable to accept direct email applications.

If you have any questions about this role, please contact Josh Chapman – [email protected]

Overseas Applicants

In response to COVID-19 the New Zealand Government imposed travel restrictions but have recently announced a five-step plan for a phased border re-opening. This phased re-opening will take some time and this may alter the nature of the standard interview process for offshore candidates, particularly at the on-site interview stage. To see how this might affect your application and for more information and updates on the border restrictions and phased re-opening, please visit the Immigration New Zealand website or the New Zealand Government's official Covid-19 website.

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, LGBTQITakatāpui+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other equity issues go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz