Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
We are seeking a Global Networks Manager to lead and strengthen the University’s engagement across key international networks, including Universitas 21 (U21), the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU), and the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN). This role is instrumental in maximising the value of these strategic partnerships, supporting the University’s internationalisation objectives, research ambitions, education portfolio and global reputation.
Working closely with senior leaders, faculties, service divisions and international partners, you will design and deliver engagement plans that translate strategic priorities into meaningful outcomes. You will provide advice, coordination and oversight across a diverse portfolio of partnership activities, ensuring opportunities arising from these networks are visible, accessible and aligned with University objectives.
This is a highly relationship-focused role that combines strategic planning, stakeholder engagement and programme delivery. You will represent the University in international forums, support senior leaders involved in network governance, and help drive engagement across research, learning abroad, institutional partnerships and global collaboration initiatives. Domestic and international travel, along with occasional evening and weekend work, will be required.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading the University’s engagement across U21, APRU and WUN, ensuring activity delivers measurable value and strategic impact
- Developing and delivering annual engagement plans, reporting frameworks and communication initiatives that support network participation
- Building strong relationships with senior leaders, faculties, service divisions and global partners to maximise partnership outcomes
- Identifying and promoting opportunities across research, teaching and learning, student mobility, internationalisation and institutional collaboration
- Supporting senior University representatives through briefings, governance support, reporting and strategic advice
- Driving continuous improvement through evaluation, benchmarking and the development of effective engagement processes and practices
This is a permanent full-time position (37.5 hours per week). The salary range for this role is $98,000 to $105,000 , negotiable depending on skills and experience.
A full description of your duties and the role are provided in the position description linked HERE .
He kōrero mōu | About you
You are an experienced relationship manager who enjoys working across complex stakeholder environments to deliver strategic outcomes. You bring a strong understanding of international partnerships and are confident engaging with senior leaders, academics, researchers and external organisations in a professional and culturally responsive manner.
You are highly organised, able to balance multiple priorities, and comfortable working both strategically and operationally. You enjoy identifying opportunities, connecting people, and turning ideas into action. Your communication skills allow you to build trust and influence outcomes, and you are motivated by contributing to initiatives that strengthen the University's global profile and international partnerships.
E rapua ana mātou | We are seeking
- A relevant tertiary qualification and significant experience within the tertiary education sector or a similarly complex environment
- Experience managing strategic partnerships, international networks or institutional relationships across multiple stakeholders
- Demonstrated ability to translate strategic priorities into operational plans and deliver measurable outcomes
- Strong stakeholder engagement, relationship management and influencing skills, including experience working with senior leaders
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including reporting, presentations and the preparation of strategic briefings
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities and deadlines in a complex environment
Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university, guided by a commitment to excellence and service to our communities. With more than 6,000 academic and professional staff, we support a diverse community of over 47,000 students.
Guided by our values , we work collaboratively to advance knowledge, foster equity and inclusion, and contribute meaningfully to New Zealand’s social, cultural, and economic well-being.
We cultivate an environment that supports your growth and rewards excellence with a range of staff benefits , including:
- Competitive salary and five weeks of annual leave
- Discounted public Transport for permanent and long-term fixed term staff
- Superannuation/KiwiSaver , matching up to 6.75%
- Flexible working arrangements, including working from home and flexible hours
- Leading, and inclusive parental leave provisions
- Career development opportunities and a range of benefits, including discounted insurance , memberships , and on‑site amenities
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Please submit your application online by the closing date of Sunday, 1 November 2026 . Your application should include:
- A brief Cover Letter explaining why you're interested in this role and how your skills match the requirements.
- Your updated CV .
Please note that we do not accept email applications.
Applicants who are currently based in New Zealand and hold current New Zealand work rights will be prioritised. Overseas applicants will be considered; however, only those who can demonstrate direct experience in a comparable role are likely to progress through the shortlisting process.
If you have specific questions that you cannot find the answers to in the advertisement or position description, you are welcome to contact Natasha Ager, Associate Director Global Partnerships and Development at [email protected] z
Equity
The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpu iMVPFAFF + , people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz