Leadership Opportunity in New Zealand Higher Education

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is seeking an accomplished academic leader to take on the role of Head of School, 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 across programmes focused on public health, Māori health, Pacific health, emergency management, and related fields. Based at AUT's South Campus in Manukau, the role combines strategic vision with hands-on people leadership to advance health equity and community wellbeing in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.

AUT stands out as New Zealand's newest university, established in 2000, with a strong emphasis on practical, impactful education. The institution serves more than 27,000 students and employs over 4,000 staff across its Auckland campuses. Its commitment to values such as Pono, Tika, and Aroha underpins a collaborative environment where innovation meets real-world application. This leadership position aligns perfectly with AUT's mission to deliver knowledge that works, particularly in addressing pressing health challenges through education, research, and partnerships.

Understanding the School of Community and Public Health

The School of Community and Public Health forms part of AUT's Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences. It brings together expertise in public health, Hauora Māori, Pacific health, disaster risk management, health law and ethics, mental health, counselling, psychotherapy, violence and trauma studies, and lived experience perspectives. Programmes range from undergraduate degrees in health science with public and environmental health majors to the Master of Public Health, which emphasises community health development and tackles social, economic, cultural, and environmental determinants of wellbeing.

Students benefit from an interdisciplinary approach that integrates Indigenous knowledge with contemporary public health practice. The school attracts both local and international learners, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to reducing health inequities. Research within the school focuses on high-impact areas that influence policy and practice, contributing to better outcomes for whānau and communities across New Zealand.

Key Responsibilities of the Head of School Role

The successful candidate will provide strategic academic and operational leadership, serving as a key member of the Dean’s leadership team. Core duties include direct line management of academic staff, supporting performance development, capability building, and succession planning. The role also involves fostering a cohesive, high-performing culture across diverse disciplines while championing excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement.

Additional priorities centre on growing research income through successful grant applications, enhancing cross-faculty collaboration, and strengthening partnerships with government, health sector organisations, industry, and community groups. A strong focus on Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments ensures support for Māori and Pacific learners and staff, promoting equity and inclusion at every level. The position requires balancing day-to-day operations with long-term strategic planning to position the school for sustained growth and impact.

Qualifications and Experience Sought

Candidates must hold a relevant PhD or doctorate and demonstrate a proven record of academic excellence suitable for appointment at professor or associate professor level. Extensive leadership experience in higher education is essential, ideally including direct management of academic teams and oversight of a department or school. A strong history of securing external research funding and building meaningful stakeholder partnerships will be highly valued.

Applicants should also show a clear commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, with experience supporting Indigenous or equity-focused initiatives considered a significant advantage. An entrepreneurial mindset and ability to embrace innovation will help drive the school forward in a dynamic higher education landscape. The role suits someone who thrives in collaborative, values-driven environments and can represent the school effectively both internally and externally.

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Public Health Context in New Zealand Higher Education

New Zealand faces significant public health challenges that underscore the importance of strong academic leadership in this field. Recent data highlight rising levels of psychological distress, particularly among young people, Māori, and Pacific communities. Non-communicable diseases, health inequities, and the impacts of climate change on wellbeing continue to demand innovative responses from educators and researchers.

Higher education institutions play a vital role in preparing the next generation of public health professionals. Programmes at AUT and similar universities equip graduates with skills to influence policy, promote prevention, and address upstream determinants of health. Leadership in these schools directly contributes to workforce development and evidence-based solutions that benefit the broader health system.

AUT's Research Strengths and Institutional Standing

AUT has built a solid reputation for research with real-world relevance. It ranks in the 501-600 band globally according to Times Higher Education and places strongly in subject areas including public health. The university's focus on applied research aligns closely with national priorities around health equity and sustainable development.

Staff and students engage in projects that span environmental health, emergency preparedness, and community-based interventions. This research informs teaching and extends impact through partnerships with Health New Zealand and other organisations. The Head of School will be instrumental in further elevating these efforts and securing additional resources for high-priority initiatives.

For more details on AUT's programmes and research, visit the official university site at aut.ac.nz.

Benefits of Pursuing Academic Leadership Roles in New Zealand

Taking on a Head of School position offers substantial professional rewards. Leaders gain influence over curriculum development, research direction, and institutional strategy while mentoring the next wave of academics and practitioners. The fixed-term nature of this appointment provides focused opportunity to make a lasting difference without long-term administrative commitment beyond the initial term.

Remuneration ranges from NZD $180,000 to $245,000 per annum, inclusive of a Head of School allowance, reflecting the seniority and responsibilities involved. The role also supports work-life balance within a progressive university environment that values staff wellbeing and professional growth.

Application Process and Timeline

Interested candidates should prepare a full academic CV, a cover letter explaining their interest in AUT and the specific role, and a statement addressing the selection criteria. Applications close on 30 June 2026. The successful appointee is expected to start by February 2027 at the latest.

Enquiries can be directed to the AUT Executive Recruitment Partner. A detailed candidate information handbook is available to support preparation. This process reflects AUT's commitment to attracting top talent capable of advancing the school's mission.

Explore the full job listing and apply via the AUT careers portal or related academic job platforms such as academicjobs.com.

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Broader Impact on Students, Research, and Communities

The Head of School will directly influence the educational experience of hundreds of students each year. By strengthening programme quality and research opportunities, the role helps prepare graduates who are ready to tackle complex health issues in clinical, policy, and community settings. Enhanced partnerships will create new pathways for student placements, collaborative projects, and knowledge exchange.

Research leadership will amplify AUT's contributions to national and international conversations on public health. Outcomes may include improved strategies for mental health support, better disaster preparedness frameworks, and more effective approaches to reducing disparities experienced by Māori and Pacific populations. These efforts align with government health priorities and contribute to a healthier, more equitable society.

Future Outlook for Public Health Education in New Zealand

As New Zealand continues to navigate evolving health landscapes, academic institutions like AUT will remain central to building capacity and driving innovation. Leadership roles such as this one position universities to respond proactively to emerging needs, from digital health advancements to climate resilience strategies.

Successful navigation of these opportunities requires leaders who combine deep expertise with inclusive, forward-thinking approaches. The Head of School position represents a timely chance to shape that future while advancing personal career goals in a supportive and impactful environment.