Team Leader Offshore Higher Research Degrees

• Lead innovative offshore doctoral programmes 
• Drive scalable and student-focused services 
• Build strong global research partnerships

 

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

Join the University of Waikato as the Team Leader Offshore Higher Research Degrees and play a key role in leading the administration and ongoing development of offshore higher research degree programmes delivered through the University’s transnational education programme.

This senior role within the Higher Research Degrees Team is responsible for providing operational leadership across offshore doctoral programmes, developing effective systems and processes that support sustainable and scalable programme delivery, and ensuring an outstanding experience for offshore students and supervisors. You will oversee the administration of students across the full higher research degree lifecycle, provide leadership and training to offshore administrative staff, and work collaboratively with internal teams and international partners to support successful programme delivery and growth.

You will also contribute to strategic initiatives, coordinate supervisor registration and professional development activities, and provide expert advice to a wide range of stakeholders across the University and offshore partner institutions.

If you are a collaborative and strategic leader with experience in higher research degree administration and a passion for international education, this is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a globally connected research environment.

Salary will be in the range of $102,611 to $113,428 per year based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a full-time role (37.5 hours a week), based on our Hillcrest Campus.

For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact the Prof Emma Nicholson, Dean of the School of Graduate Research at emma.nicholson@waikato.ac.nz. All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted.

 

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You are an experienced and motivated leader with substantial experience in higher research degree administration and the ability to manage complex operational activities in a dynamic environment. You are highly organised, solutions-focused, and confident building strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, both nationally and internationally.

With proven leadership capability, you can guide and support staff, manage competing priorities, and deliver high-quality services and projects with accuracy and professionalism. You bring excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to interpret and apply policies and regulations effectively.

You are committed to continuous improvement, delivering excellent stakeholder experiences, and supporting the University’s values, including its commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

 

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we? 

Te Mata Kairangi School of Graduate Research sits under the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research. The School is responsible for the strategic leadership and provision of services and support for all postgraduate higher research degree programmes, including offshore PhD programmes established under the University’s transnational education programme, as well as scholarships, awards and prizes across the University.

 

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

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.

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

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. 

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

 

Applications Close on Wednesday May 20, 2026

Requisition number: 1003649