Change Manager

About us | Mō mātou

The University of Otago | Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka has been a renowned place of learning and discovery for more than 150 years. We strive to become an even more successful, globally influential university, committed to upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Our Vision / Ko te Aronga is for our people and knowledge to transform lives, connect communities and nurture the environment in Ōtākou, Te Waipounamu, Aotearoa, the Pacific, and the world.

Our Human Resources Division is committed to creating and maintaining an environment that enables the university to attract, retain and develop the people we need to achieve our goals.

The Role | Te mahi

Our Change Management team provides specialist change management advice and support, leading activities focused on the people side of change. Working alongside University leaders and in partnership with project managers we support the achievement of strategic goals and the successful delivery of projects including system implementations, building projects, process improvements and restructuring.

As Change Manager you will develop and implement change management strategies to engage stakeholders, minimise resistance and maximise the success of change initiatives. You will deliver, review and monitor end-to-end change deliverables to increase business readiness support staff to successfully adapt to change, and ensure that changes are effectively communicated, adopted and sustained.

What you’ll do:

• Apply structured methodologies to develop, deliver and monitor appropriately scaled and effective change management strategies and plans.
• Identify and connect with key stakeholders, listening and responding to their needs and gathering feedback.
• Ensure communications about change supports project progress and keeps staff engaged and informed about project activities.
• Conduct change impact assessments on people, processes and systems; analyse the University’s readiness for change and tailor change strategies to meet the different needs of impacted groups.
• Support and coach project sponsors and managers in their critical roles leading change.
• Identify, and prepare recommendations to mitigate risk associated with proposed changes to minimise impact on other business as usual (BAU) activities.

Skills and Experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

• Relevant tertiary level qualification or recognised qualification(s) appropriate to the role.
• Previous experience in change management, human resources management, project management, or relevant discipline.
• Proven executive stakeholder management experience and a consultative and partnering approach with stakeholders.
• Knowledge of change management principles, methodologies, disciplines and tools.
• An inquisitive nature and a genuine interest in people.
• Be resilient and self-motivated with the ability to influence others to achieve results.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively and make valuable contributions within a team.

While previous experience in change management is valuable, we encourage applications from individuals who are confident in their ability to succeed in this who bring enthusiasm, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week), permanent position, based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

Some travel may be required to attend other University campuses.

The appointment range for this position is $96,587 to $105,532 per annum. Top of the range is $114,474.

A competitive benefits package is on offer, including wide ranging learning and development opportunities, a competitive salary, 5 weeks’ annual leave, a 6.75% superannuation scheme, and the ability to achieve real work/life balance.

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this position.

For further information please contact Alan Richardson via the email address below.

Application | Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2600499 will close on Monday, 13 April 2026.

Additional Information

Contact: Alan Richardson

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

Location: About Dunedin

Posted: 30/03/2026