Leader, Specialised Scholarships Team

Job Description:

• Lead the University’s specialised Scholarships team
• Manage AUT and externally funded scholarship processes
• Work closely with senior leaders across AUT and with external stakeholders
• Permanent, full-time role based at AUT’s City Campus

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 Scholarships Office administers AUT and externally funded scholarships on behalf of the whole university, working closely with students and external stakeholders to deliver advice, awards and payments.

The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi

Reporting directly to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, this is a permanent full-time senior role leading the important work of the AUT Scholarships Office. You will

Your responsibilities will include:

• Development and management of AUT Scholarship policies and procedures
• Oversight of all AUT scholarship processes
• Administration and financial management with delegated financial authority to approve scholarship payments
• Management of performance and development of staff
• Lead, promote and embed responsible use of digital tools to enhance decision-making, streamline processes and improve outcomes for all
• Lead the embedding of Te Aronui, AUT’s Te Tiriti Framework
• Lead in alignment with Pono, Tika and Aroha, creating an environment where these values are consistently demonstrated and embedded in team practice
• Proactively incorporate the People Leader essentials guide into all work
• Actively contribute to maintaining a psychologically and physically safe and healthy work environment

This role requires initiative, professionalism, leadership and the ability to work confidently with senior leaders across the University, as well as external and government stakeholders.

About you | Ko wai koe

If you’re the kind of person who isn’t afraid to try new things, explore bold ideas and inject real energy and passion into the entire university experience - you’ll fit right in.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• At least five years’ experience in tertiary education administration
• Comprehensive understanding of university regulations and procedures
• Experience in policy and process development, review and implementation of new policy and procedures
• Knowledge of curriculum and qualification assessment in a New Zealand and international secondary and tertiary education context
• Demonstrated ability in financial management and budget planning
• Demonstrated ability in operational and strategic planning
• Proven experience in leading and motivating an effective team
• Demonstrated ability to maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including tertiary providers and external funding agencies
• Ability to manage and prioritise competing demands and to cope with fluctuating work pressures
• A relevant tertiary degree qualification of equivalent experience
• A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Supportive of AUT’s Te Aronui journey (link).

As a professional member of staff at AUT, you’ll help keep us moving forward. From improving our services and streamlining our systems to supporting the experiences of students and staff across our campuses. By working collaboratively, solving problems and driving practical improvements, you’ll play a vital role in helping us operate smoothly, raise our profile, and evolve what we do, every day.

You will bring an open, engaging, and collaborative approach, with the flexibility to respond to changing requirements, and actively contribute to a positive and collegial environment. You will demonstrate cultural humility, awareness, and respect when engaging with indigenous peoples and culturally diverse communities. Experience supporting indigenous, equity, or inclusion focused initiatives is highly desirable.

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 belonging.
• Recognition frameworks that reflect your contribution and how you live our values.
• The tools and trust to make a meaningful difference every day.
• Māori and Pacific development programmes that strengthen our shared purpose.
• Cultural capability uplift development programmes for all staff
• Professional development and funded study pathways to keep you moving forward.
• Free gym membership.

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 criterialisted 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: Monday 1 June 2026
• For further information: please send us an enquiry hereor call 09 921 9499.

Closing Date | Te rā aukati: 16 April 2026, 11:55pm

Job Reference | Tohutoro Mahi: 95281

*Full-time denotes 37.5 hours per week