Pathways Team Leader - Programme Development & Academic Operations

Pathways Team Leader - Programme Development & Academic Operations Whakairohia he toki, tāraia te anamata | Learning with purpose, creating our futures A new era in vocational education is unfolding in Tāmaki Makaurau. Manukau Institute of Technology and Unitec, two trusted institutions with over 50 years of service, are coming together to create a unified, future‑focused learning environment. This transformation is about more than education; it’s about building an inclusive system that reflects the aspirations of our diverse communities, industries, and Māori across the region. Te āheinga: The opportunity The Team Leader – Programme Development and Academic Operations play a pivotal role in advancing the success and growth of the Pathways team. This position leads the design and development of innovative academic programmes tailored to secondary school learners, while providing leadership and support to Academic Lecturers within the UPC. In addition to its core focus, the role offers the opportunity to broaden impact across the wider Tāmaki portfolio, contributing specialist expertise to programme design and development initiatives. Working collaboratively with internal teams and external partners—including secondary schools, community organisations, and iwi—this role helps shape future‑focused learning pathways that support successful transitions into tertiary education and employment. This is an opportunity for an experienced professional with strong capability in academic programme design, development, and innovation, ideally within secondary‑tertiary pathways or vocational education contexts, to make a meaningful contribution where specialist expertise is highly valued and impactful. Please refer to the Position Description for further information about the role. You'll have: An understanding or desire to learn te reo Māori, tikanga Māori, and the values and practices of kaupapa Māori Evidence of active engagement in building diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplaces/environments Demonstrated expertise in academic programme design, development, and innovation within tertiary, vocational, or secondary‑tertiary pathways Proven ability to lead, mentor, and support academic staff, fostering high‑performing and collaborative teams Strong capability to build and sustain partnerships with secondary schools, kura, iwi, community organisations, and industry Experience co‑designing learner‑centred programmes that support effective transitions into further education and employment Sound knowledge of curriculum development, academic quality, assessment, and compliance requirements Ability to translate strategic priorities into practical programme initiatives and portfolio growth opportunities Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, using data and insights to inform decisions and continuous improvement Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver outcomes in a complex, evolving environment while working collaboratively across teams A valid, current driver’s licence is required. The role entails a reasonable level of work‑related travel. Why you’ll love working with us Manukau Institute of Technology and Unitec is committed to learning with purpose and creating futures for our learners and communities. We value strong governance, collaboration, and wellbeing, and we are committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Manukau Institute of Technology and Unitec are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and celebrate diversity and are committed to building a supportive and inclusive environment for all. Location(s): Mt Albert #J-18808-Ljbffr