Exciting Leadership Opportunity in Public Health Education at AUT
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is seeking an experienced academic leader to take on the role of Head of School for Community and Public Health. This five-year fixed-term position offers a unique chance to guide a multidisciplinary team of more than 60 staff members and support over 690 equivalent full-time students. The role is based at AUT's South Campus in Manukau and forms a key part of the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences. Candidates will shape strategic direction while fostering a culture of excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement.
The position emphasizes real-world impact through education and partnerships that address pressing health needs across Aotearoa New Zealand. Successful applicants will join the Dean's leadership team and contribute to broader faculty goals focused on innovation and equity.
Understanding the School of Community and Public Health at AUT
AUT's School of Community and Public Health operates within a vibrant academic environment dedicated to advancing health equity and wellbeing. The school integrates expertise in public health, Hauora Māori, Pacific health, emergency management, health law and ethics, mental health, counselling, and violence and trauma prevention. It draws on Aotearoa's unique social and cultural context to prepare future leaders who can respond effectively to diverse community needs.
Programs span undergraduate and postgraduate levels, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches and Indigenous knowledge systems. This foundation supports graduates who enter roles in government, health services, community organizations, and research institutions.
The Importance of Strong Leadership in University Health Schools
Effective leadership in higher education health programs drives both academic quality and societal outcomes. Heads of School oversee staff development, curriculum innovation, and research growth while balancing operational demands. In public health specifically, leaders must navigate evolving challenges such as chronic disease prevention, mental health support, and responses to environmental and social determinants of health.
This role at AUT requires proven experience managing large academic units, securing external funding, and building partnerships with government, industry, and communities. The successful candidate will champion equity, diversity, and inclusion while embedding commitments under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Key Responsibilities and Strategic Focus Areas
The Head of School will provide direct line management for academic and professional staff, including performance reviews and capability development. Additional priorities include enhancing research performance through grant applications, promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration, and strengthening the school's external profile.
Other focus areas encompass supporting staff wellbeing, improving program quality, and fostering a cohesive culture across varied disciplines. The position also involves active participation in faculty strategy as a member of the Dean's leadership team.
- Leading excellence in teaching and learning outcomes
- Growing research capability and external income
- Building sustainable partnerships with health sector stakeholders
- Championing Māori and Pacific learner success
- Driving innovation in curriculum and delivery methods
Public Health Priorities in New Zealand and the Australasian Context
Public health education plays a vital role in addressing national challenges including mental health, chronic conditions, and health disparities. New Zealand's health system emphasizes prevention and equity, with universities contributing through workforce development and applied research. Similar priorities exist across Australia, creating opportunities for regional collaboration in training and knowledge exchange.
Leaders in this field help prepare graduates to tackle issues like infectious disease management, environmental health risks, and social determinants affecting vulnerable populations. AUT's location and focus position the school well to contribute meaningfully in these areas.
Embracing Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Indigenous Perspectives
AUT places strong emphasis on Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles in all aspects of its operations. The School of Community and Public Health integrates Māori knowledge, leadership, and perspectives to support culturally safe practices and improved outcomes for Māori communities. This approach extends to Pacific health initiatives, recognizing the diverse needs of Aotearoa's population.
Candidates with experience supporting Indigenous equity initiatives will find strong alignment with the university's values of integrity, ethical action, and compassion. The role offers scope to advance these commitments through curriculum, research, and community partnerships.
Research Excellence and Real-World Impact
Successful applicants will bring a track record of securing research funding and producing impactful scholarship. The school supports work that translates into practical benefits for communities, such as improved health promotion strategies and policy development. Collaboration across AUT's faculties and with external partners enhances these outcomes.
Research areas align with national priorities, including mental health, trauma-informed care, and emergency preparedness. The Head of School will play a central role in elevating the school's research profile both nationally and internationally.
Who Should Apply: Ideal Candidate Profile
Applicants typically hold a PhD and qualify for appointment at professor or associate professor level. Essential qualities include demonstrated academic leadership in a relevant field, experience managing staff performance and development, and success in building external relationships. A commitment to innovation and inclusive practices is highly valued.
The role suits entrepreneurial academics who thrive in dynamic environments and can foster high-performing, collaborative teams. Experience in large, complex academic settings is preferable.
Application Process and Timeline
Interested candidates should submit a full academic CV, cover letter explaining interest in the role and AUT, and a statement addressing the selection criteria. Applications close on 30 June 2026. The successful appointee would ideally start by February 2027 at the latest.
The position is a five-year fixed-term appointment with salary ranging from NZD $180,000 to $245,000, including a Head of School allowance. Enquiries can be directed to the AUT Executive Recruitment Partner. AUT is also recruiting for a related Head of School position in Acute and Primary Health.
Future Outlook for Public Health Leadership in Higher Education
As health systems evolve, university schools of public health will continue to play pivotal roles in workforce preparation and knowledge generation. Leaders who combine academic rigor with community focus will help address emerging issues such as climate-related health impacts and digital health innovations.
This opportunity at AUT represents a chance to influence the next generation of practitioners and researchers while contributing to healthier communities across the region. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the detailed candidate handbook for comprehensive information on the school, faculty, and position expectations.