MBA Programme Director

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EXECUTIVE PROGRAMMES
OTAGO BUSINESS SCHOOL | TE KURA PAKIHI

Shape the future of a leading MBA programme

As New Zealand's oldest and most research-intensive university, the University of Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world and attracts first-rate academics and students. Our graduates are known for their independence, creativity, and audacity of spirit - qualities that shape leaders across health, government, business, research, and beyond.

The University of Otago's Division of Commerce | Otago Business School is one of New Zealand's leading business schools, recognised internationally for excellence in teaching, research, and engagement. Through transformative education, impactful research, and strong partnerships with industry, government, iwi, and communities, we develop responsible leaders and contribute to the economic and social prosperity of Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.

We are now seeking an outstanding leader to guide the next phase of the Otago MBA, New Zealand's #1 ranked MBA programme with a strong and growing international reputation.

Te mahi | The role

The Otago Business School is looking for a strategic and future focused leader to provide academic and programme leadership for the Otago MBA.

Reporting to the Director of Executive Programmes, you will ensure our MBA remains globally competitive, innovative, and aligned with the University's strategic direction, while contributing strongly to growth, reputation, and student outcomes.

This is a pivotal role at the heart of our Executive Programmes portfolio, with responsibility for:
Leading MBA strategy, curriculum development, and delivery.
Driving innovation in programme design and flexible delivery models.
Strengthening international profile, rankings and market position.
Building and sustaining partnerships with industry, alumni and global networks.
Enhancing student recruitment, retention, and experience.
Contributing to enrolment growth and long-term sustainability.

You will play a key role in maintaining AMBA accreditation and international quality standards, while shaping how the Otago MBA evolves in a rapidly changing global education market.

This is a rare opportunity to take an already high performing MBA and help define what it becomes over the next 10-15 years.

Ka pukeka me ka wheako | Your skills and experience

We are seeking a credible, forward thinking leader who thrives in an environment of innovation, growth, and strategic repositioning.

We welcome applications from both academic and non-academic candidates.

You will bring:
Leadership experience in MBA, postgraduate business, or executive education.
Proven track record of programme development and innovation.
Experience in curriculum design and quality assurance, ideally linked to international accreditation (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB).
Commercial and strategic capability, including driving enrolment growth and programme value.
Strong stakeholder engagement and partnership building skills.
Experience working with diverse cohorts and international markets.
Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and embedding contemporary business challenges into learning.

For academic applicants, a relevant doctoral qualification and experience in postgraduate teaching and research will be expected. For non-academic applicants, equivalent senior leadership experience and strong sector credibility will be equally valued.

Puroko | Further details

This is a full-time (1 FTE), permanent position based in Otepoti | Dunedin, New Zealand.

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.

For further information, please contact the Recruitment Manager, Elena Calvert, 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 2600912 will close on Sunday, 12 July 2026.
Additional Information

Contact: Elena Calvert

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

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

Location: About Dunedin