"Research Operations Manager, 2-year fixed-term contract"

Job Description:

Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makau Rau | Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

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

"With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive"

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a university of opportunity where all students with talent and potential have the chance to succeed. We are a socially driven university with equity and excellence central to our purpose and actions, and we offer a stimulating teaching and research environment with strong connections to government, business, and industry.

• Dynamic and Culturally Rich Organisation
• Collaborative and Impactful Role
• Great Team Environment
• Across AUT City

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Are you passionate about advancing Māori research models, pedagogies, and practices within a vibrant academic environment? We invite applications for the position of Research Operations Manager, 2-year fixed-term contract for the Te Ranga Tukutuku Research Network at AUT.

This is a unique opportunity to join an innovative and forward-thinking team dedicated to transforming research practice and supporting Māori-led research excellence.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual who brings both strategic insight and operational expertise to support and grow Te Ranga Tukutuku. The successful candidate will lead the development and implementation of research operations that align with AUT's policies and support the aspirations of our Māori research community.

Ngā haepapa matua | Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for the Te Ranga Tukutuku Research Network, including the design, development, and delivery of initiatives, events, and activities
• Lead and manage a small, high-performing team, providing mentorship, setting expectations, and ensuring effective coordination of workstreams.
• Oversee financial and budget management, including forecasting, financial modelling, investment planning, and monthly reporting to the Whakaruruhau.
• Monitor, evaluate, and report on the performance of projects, initiatives, and activities, ensuring compliance with institutional and external requirements.
• Identify and secure funding opportunities, leading the preparation of high-quality funding proposals and managing post-award processes
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with iwi, hapū, Māori research communities, and local/international partners to advance the aspirations of Te Ranga Tukutuku
• Ensure compliance with audit, legislative, financial, and institutional policies and procedures, including risk management and quality assurance of research outputs
• Host and facilitate seminars, workshops, and public events, raising the profile and visibility of Te Ranga Tukutuku
• Contribute to university-wide strategies in Māori research and equity, working closely with senior AUT leaders
• Promote health, safety, and well-being, maintaining a safe and supportive work environment in line with AUT policies

Ko wai koe | About you

We are looking for someone who brings a combination of academic credibility, operational leadership, and cultural competence.

The ideal candidate will:

• Hold a PhD in a discipline that honours Māori research models, pedagogies, and practices.
• Have a strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and deep, enduring relationships with Māori communities.
• Demonstrate at least 10 years' experience in academic administration within a university or research-intensive environment.
• Ideally have knowledge of financial management in a large and complex organisation, supported by relevant financial qualifications.
• Possess strong skills in creative problem-solving, communication, and engagement, especially in cross-cultural and research settings.
• Stay current with theory and practice in culturally sustaining research methodologies.

Ngā Huanga | Benefits

• Professional development
• Generous leave allowances
• Flexible and hybrid working options

At AUT, we offer a genuine work-life balance with flexible working arrangements. Free gym membership. Continuous professional development and career growth opportunities. If you're ready to take on a role in a strategic mana-enhancing environment and contribute to a university making a real impact, we'd love to hear from you.

Reference: 93353

Closing date: 20th November 2025, 11:59 pm

*Full-time denotes 37.5 hours per week

### Posted:

22/09/2025