Director of Research and Enterprise

\n About the role\n

At the University of Waikato we are transforming how we support research. This is a rare opportunity to lead the delivery of our new research strategy and our support for research across the University.

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As Director Research and Enterprise, you will provide strategic leadership across the full research lifecycle - from opportunity identification and proposal development through to funding acquisition, project delivery and impact realisation. Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, you will lead five integrated research support functions and drive the transition from a predominantly operational service model to a strategic, data-informed partner that proactively develops competitive, mission-led and impact-focused research programmes.

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You will play a key role in positioning the University for success in a rapidly evolving research funding environment, including the transition to RFNZ and increasing expectations around impact, commercialisation, international engagement and evidence-based decision making.

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Working closely with senior academic leaders, government agencies, industry partners and international collaborators, you will help shape the University's research strategy, grow external research income and strengthen the quality, scale and success of major research initiatives.

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Salary will be offered within the approved range and will be determined based on the successful candidate's skills, qualifications, knowledge and relevant experience. We are committed to recognising the value each individual brings to the role and will make an offer that reflects their capability and expertise.

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This is a permanent, full-time position (37.5 hours a week) based at our Hillcrest Campus, Hamilton, New Zealand.

Ko wai koe? - Who are you?\n

You are a strategic and visionary leader with significant experience in research, research management or a closely related field. You have successfully led complex teams and organisational functions and bring a deep understanding of the changing national and international research funding landscape.

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You will also have:

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• A postgraduate qualification (Master's degree or equivalent experience).
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• Senior leadership experience in research, research management or institutional strategy.
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• Proven success in research funding, proposal development or research strategy.
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• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.
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• Excellent analytical, governance and decision-making capability.
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• Experience leading organisational change and transformation.
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• Financial and resource management expertise.
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• The ability to build strong relationships across academic, government, industry and international sectors.
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• A collaborative, proactive and resilient leadership style.
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• A doctoral qualification, experience with RFNZ or emerging funding models, and knowledge of commercialisation and industry engagement would be advantageous.
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Ko wai mātou? - Who are we?\n

The Research and Enterprise Office provides strategic and operational leadership for the University's research support infrastructure. Working across research nodes, regional offices and the central office, the team partners with academic divisions, finance, ethics, commercial and business partnerships, and the School of Graduate Research to support the University's research ambitions.

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The University of Waikato is a research-intensive university with a strong commitment to innovation, diversity, community engagement and partnership with Māori. Our research seeks to create meaningful economic, social and environmental impact locally, nationally and globally.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? - Why should you apply for this position?\n

We want you to be part of our success! Our university stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you'll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

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The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata - For the People\n

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

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E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

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Applications close on September 13, 2026

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Requisition number: 1003840

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