Principal Enterprise Architect

Job Description:

The University of Waikato has a bold new Digital Plan that sets our direction through to 2029 under the vision "Digital connects us and moves us forward." The Plan establishes clear priorities across data, cloud platforms, software delivery, enterprise architecture, and emerging technologies including AI, that will ensure the University can teach, research and operate successfully.

To deliver on our ambitions, we are investing in our people and growing our capabilities within Information Technology Services. This is an exciting role that will lead enterprise architecture, aligning strategy, governance, and technology to shape a future-ready digital environment.

• Lead enterprise architecture for a future-focused university
• Shape digital strategy and technology investment decisions
• Influence enterprise-wide technology direction and governance

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

Join a forward-thinking university and lead the evolution of enterprise architecture, shaping strategic technology direction and enabling a connected, future-ready digital environment.

The Principal Enterprise Architect is the University’s most senior architecture authority, responsible for defining and governing enterprise architecture frameworks, standards, and roadmaps. You will translate strategy into practical technology direction, guide investment decisions, and ensure solutions are aligned, sustainable, and fit for purpose.

Working across the organisation, you will engage senior stakeholders, provide expert advice to governance groups, and lead the development of a mature, high-performing architecture practice.

Salary will be based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a full-time role, based on our Hillcrest Campus. For more information on the role please see the position description or for a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Glenn Penfold, Deputy Chief Information Officer, at glennpenfold@waikato.ac.nz. All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You are an experienced enterprise architect with a strong track record in large, complex organisations. You bring deep expertise in architecture frameworks (such as TOGAF), governance, and technology strategy, along with the ability to translate complex concepts into clear, practical direction.

You are confident engaging with senior stakeholders and governance forums, and you excel at building alignment across business and technology teams. A natural leader, you have experience developing architecture practices, mentoring others, and driving high standards of delivery.

You will also demonstrate an understanding of, and commitment to, partnership with Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, along with an appreciation for diverse perspectives.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?

The University of Waikato's Information Technology Services (ITS) division leads digital direction, manages and protects the digital ecosystem, and delivers services that ensure the University can teach, research, and operate successfully in a secure, resilient, and future-ready environment. We are at an exciting point in our journey. Our new Digital Plan identifies the modernisation of our data platform as a priority initiative. This role sits at the centre of that ambition.

At the University of Waikato, you will join a forward-looking organisation committed to innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement, with a strong focus on safe, responsible and future-ready digital practice.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success! Our university stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on Wednesday April 15, 2026

Requisition number: 1003560

Posted: 30/03/2026