"Events and Experience Manager"

Job Description:

• Lead high-profile events that shape AUT’s strategic direction and future
• Senior role within the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, reporting to the Assistant Vice-Chancellor Engagement
• Permanent opportunity at the heart of one of New Zealand’s leading universities

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is bold and unapologetically different, centred on students and grounded in Knowledge that Works driven by talented, progressive people. We are New Zealand’s newest university, ranked 5-stars by QS Universities 2025 and a place of opportunity where more than 26,000 students with talent and potential succeed, supported by a community of more than 4,000 staff based primarily across three Auckland campuses. Built on collaboration, shared purpose and the values of Pono (fact, truth, reality, integrity), Tika (acting accordingly, doing what is needed, ethical expression), and Aroha (empathy, care, compassion). AUT offers an innovative, forward-thinking environment where committed people work together to improve outcomes for students, communities, and the world.

AUT recognises the importance of Te Tiriti, Māori and Pacific knowledge, leadership, and contribution across our university and is committed to creating environments where these communities can thrive. We embrace diversity in all its forms and are proud to welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.

The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi

We are seeking an experienced Events and Experience Manager to join the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, reporting to the Assistant Vice-Chancellor Engagement. This senior role plays a pivotal part in advancing AUT’s strategy, Te Kete, through the leadership and delivery of strategic and operational events.

You will lead a diverse portfolio of events that engage internal and external audiences, strengthen relationships, and communicate AUT’s vision, values, and priorities. Working closely with senior leaders, central events teams, and external partners, you will ensure events are impactful, well-governed, and continuously improved.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and delivering strategic and operational events aligned to AUT’s strategy and Te Kete
• Designing bold, engaging event concepts and bringing stakeholders on the journey
• Managing large-scale and smaller operational events from inception through to delivery and evaluation
• Collaborating closely with AUT’s central events team on formal and informal events
• Developing event collateral and programming to support fundraising, alumni engagement, government relations, strategic partnerships, and VIP visits
• Managing budgets and overseeing an annual programme of events, ensuring quality, consistency, and value
• Ensuring all events reflect AUT’s values and enhance internal culture and external engagement

About you | Ko wai koe

You are a confident and experienced events professional who thrives in complex, high-profile environments. You bring both strategic insight and hands-on delivery capability, along with a collaborative and adaptable approach.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Proven experience delivering large-scale and complex events end-to-end
• Strong stakeholder relationship management and partnership-building skills
• Strategic thinking combined with excellent operational execution
• Experience managing budgets and multiple event workstreams
• A professional, flexible, and solutions-focused working style
• A demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
• Cultural humility and the ability to engage respectfully with Māori, Pacific, and diverse communities
• A commitment to equity, diversity and Supportive of AUT’s Te Aronui journey (link).

What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

At AUT, you’ll be part of a values-led university that supports you to thrive in your role and career. We offer:

• Flexible working and a strong, caring culture that supports
• Recognition frameworks that reflect your contribution and how you live our
• The tools and trust to make a meaningful difference every
• Māori and Pacific development programmes that strengthen our shared
• Cultural capability uplift development programmes for all staff
• Professional development and funded study pathways to keep you moving forward.
• Free gym

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono

Along with your CV - please ensure to submit a cover letter which a) explains why this role (and AUT) is of interest, and b) addresses how you feel you meet some, or all, of the key criteria listed above.

Please feel free to add any further comments you feel may also support your application. All applications must be submitted through the online application process.

Further Information | Pārongo Anō

Start Date: May 2026

Closing Date | Te rā aukati: 20 March 2026 at 5pm

Job Reference | Tohutoro Mahi:94990

At AUT we strive to be a place where people love to work and learn. We are committed to te Tiriti, excellence and inclusivity and aspire to be the University of choice for Māori and Pacific communities. We welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.

Please note that all applications must be submitted through the online application process. For further information, please send us an enquiry here or call 921 9499. Please note we are happy to answer your questions but we do not accept applications by email. You will need to apply through the standard registration process.

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