"Manager Process Improvement-2600283"

OPERATIONS DIVISION | TE WĀHANGA WHAKAHAERE

OFFICE OF TRANSFORMATION AND IMPROVEMENT | TE TARI WHAKAUMU ME TE WHAKAPAI AKE

Te mahi | The role

We’re looking for a strategic, future focused leader to help shape how the University operates. As our Manager, Process Improvement, you’ll drive enterprise wide transformation across academic and professional services, with a strong emphasis on digital enablement, automation, and people centred change.

Working closely with senior leaders and the Digital Division, you’ll lead initiatives that not only improve processes but shift how services are delivered across the University. Our team is known for its collaborative, innovative approach - if you thrive on partnership and driving meaningful change, you’ll be a great fit.

What this role will cover:

•    Leading improvement and automation initiatives across the University

•    Developing and embedding an enterprise automation roadmap

•    Building improvement capability and strengthening organisational maturity

•    Partnering with Digital and cross University teams to deliver scalable, sustainable solutions

•    Enhancing data informed decision making and enabling a culture of continuous improvement

Kā pūkeka me kā wheako | Your skills and experience

We’re seeking someone who brings both strategic vision and practical delivery experience. Ideally, you will have:

•    Experience leading significant improvement or transformation programmes in complex environments.

•    Strong knowledge of improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, service design, systems thinking).

•    Understanding of automation opportunities and enablers (workflow automation, RPA, Microsoft ecosystem).

•    Ability to build relationships and influence senior leaders, technical teams, and end users.

•    A collaborative, innovative mindset with a passion for lifting capability.

•    Experience using data and insights to guide decisions and measure impact.

•    A people centred approach to change that engages and empowers others.

If you’re excited about shaping the future of university services and leading work that makes a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Pūroko | Further details

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

As well as a competitive salary, we offer five weeks’ annual leave, a 6.75% superannuation scheme, and the ability to achieve real work/life balance. More information regarding employee benefits can be found here.

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people and behaviours. This means that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives are valued and respected.

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

For further information, or to discuss the roles in confidence, please contact Katie Barrett, Senior Manager Continuous Improvement via the email address below.

Tono | Application

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2600283 will close on Thursday, 12 March 2026.

Additional Information

Contact: Katie Barrett

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

Location: About Dunedin

Primary Location NZL-SI-Dunedin

Employment Status Permanent 

Salary Level and Range The University is offering a remuneration level commensurate with the responsibilities of the position.

Organisation Office of Transformation and Improvement

Job Function Project Management