"Administrative Assistant – AVC Pacific"

Job Description:

• Permanent 0.6 FTE role supporting Pacific success
• Work closely with senior University leadership
• Collaborative, purpose-driven team environment

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

The Administrative Assistant – AVC Pacific provides high-quality administrative and operational support to the Assistant Vice-Chancellor Pacific and the Pacific at Waikato team. This role is central to enabling the effectiveness and visibility of the University’s Pacific portfolio and supporting initiatives that contribute to the success of Pacific learners, staff, families and communities.

Working as a trusted professional partner, you will coordinate a wide range of administrative activities including diary and meeting management, event coordination, travel arrangements and communications. You will also support financial and operational processes such as purchasing and invoicing, maintain team records and systems, and assist with digital communications including webpages and newsletters.

The role works closely with the Assistant Vice-Chancellor Pacific and the Pacific at Waikato team to support the delivery of programmes, events and strategic initiatives that advance the University’s Pacific Strategic Plan and strengthen engagement with Pacific communities.

Salary will be in the range of $73,235 to $87,024 per year pro rata based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a 0.6 FTE role (22.5 hours per week), based on our Hillcrest Campus.

For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Dr Keaka Hemi, Assistant Vice-Chancellor Pacific, keaka.hemi@waikato.ac.nz. All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You are a highly organised and proactive administrative professional who enjoys supporting senior leaders and working collaboratively within a diverse team environment. You bring excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities with confidence and professionalism.

You will have experience providing administrative support in a complex organisation and be comfortable coordinating meetings, events, and operational processes. Experience with financial administration such as purchasing and invoicing, along with confidence using organisational systems and Microsoft Office tools, will enable you to contribute effectively to the smooth running of the portfolio.

Equally important is your ability to work respectfully and effectively with Pacific people and communities. Cultural responsiveness, relationship-building skills, and a collaborative mindset will help you contribute positively to the Pacific at Waikato team and its commitment to supporting Pacific learner and staff success.

Fluency in a Pacific language, experience working in the tertiary sector or public sector, and familiarity with digital communications or newsletter coordination would be advantageous.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Research shows that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At The University of Waikato, we’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and genuine workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t perfectly match every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You might be just the right person for this or another opportunity on our team.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?

The Office of the Vice-Chancellor is the administrative headquarters and the chief executive office of the University. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic’s (DVCA) portfolio provides comprehensive academic and student services to the University and our students. The Assistant Vice-Chancellor Pacific (AVC Pacific) portfolio provides strategic leadership for the university’s efforts to deliver better outcomes through tertiary education for Pacific learners, staff, families, and communities.

At the University of Waikato, you’ll be part of a community that values curiosity, collaboration and meaningful contribution. Whether you are advancing research, supporting students, or strengthening the systems that enable our University to succeed, your work helps shape the journeys of others.We are committed to creating an environment where our people can grow professionally while maintaining balance in the moments that matter outside of work. Because potential is not only realised in major milestones — it’s found in everyday achievements, shared successes, and the impact we make together.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success! Our university stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on March 22 March 2026

Requisition number: 1003495