Research Network Senior Manager

Job Description:

• Lead a flagship, pan-university research network delivering national and global impact
• Drive strategic partnerships and secure major external research funding
• Influence AUT’s research strategy and interdisciplinary collaboration across faculties
• 2-year fixed-term, 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 Transformational Technologies Research Network (TTRN) is a flagship, Tier 4 pan-university initiative that brings together AUT researchers, industry, government, and communities to address complex challenges through interdisciplinary research and innovation. The network focuses on areas such as smart and sustainable futures, human-centred technology innovation, and creative and connected technologies, contributing to AUT’s research excellence and impact across Aotearoa New Zealand and globally.

The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi

This is a 2-year fixed-term, full-time opportunity to provide strategic and operational leadership for the AUT Transformational Technologies Research Network.

As the Research Network Senior Manager, you will lead the implementation of the network’s strategy, enabling interdisciplinary collaboration, developing high-value partnerships, and securing major national and international research funding. You will work at the intersection of research strategy, institutional priorities, and external engagement to deliver measurable impact.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the network’s strategic initiatives
• Identifying and securing external funding opportunities and supporting high-quality proposal development
• Building and managing partnerships with industry, government, iwi, and community stakeholders
• Supporting and mentoring researchers and fostering a high-performing, inclusive research culture
• Overseeing budgets, reporting, governance processes, and compliance requirements
• Coordinating activities across faculties, research centres, and external collaborators

This role engages with senior academic leaders, research offices, external funders, and partners. The position contributes to Te Aronui by embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, supporting Māori and Pacific research engagement, and enabling equitable and impactful research outcomes.

Please review the position description available for more details.

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:

• Extensive experience (typically 10–15+ years) in research management, strategy, or leadership within a university or research environment
• Proven success in securing and managing large, externally funded research projects
• Strong understanding of New Zealand and international research funding landscapes (e.g., MBIE, Marsden, HRC)
• Demonstrated ability to build and sustain strategic partnerships across sectors
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
• A relevant postgraduate qualification
• 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 opportunities to keep you moving forward.

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: Ideally by June 2026 (negotiable with the successful applicant)
• Salary Range | Ngā Utu: A competitive remuneration package will be agreed, commensurate with skills and experience.
• Contact for enquiries: Mike Wood, AUT Executive Recruitment Partner – mike.wood@aut.ac.nz.
• Closing Date | Te rā aukati: Sunday 26 April at 11.55pm
• Job Reference | Tohutoro Mahi:95166

*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.

Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou ka ora ai te iwi.

*With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.*