Tumu Tuarua Akoranga | Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic

The Position

Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury is seeking a dynamic and innovative academic leader to become its next Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic (DVCA).

The DVCA at the University of Canterbury will provide strategic leadership across the University’s academic portfolio, advancing excellence in teaching, learning, academic quality and the student experience. Reporting to the Vice-Chancellor, the role will lead the development and implementation of academic strategy, champion innovation in curriculum and pedagogy and ensure the University’s educational offerings remain relevant, rigorous and responsive to the changing needs of students and society.

Joining the University at the beginning of a refreshed leadership era, the DVCA will have the opportunity to help shape its future direction. The position will build upon established strengths in student success, grow online and flexible education, guide the University’s response to artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, and provide leadership across academic governance, employability, scheduling and the University Library.

As a key member of the senior leadership team and trusted institutional deputy, the appointee will work closely with Executive Deans, academic and professional leaders to build alignment around shared priorities and drive a whole-of-university approach to educational excellence. The successful candidate will bring significant academic leadership experience, a strong record of advancing university teaching and learning and demonstrated success in translating strategy into institutional outcomes.

Dynamic, collaborative and forward-looking, the new DVCA will combine educational vision with strong institutional judgement, communication and relationship-building capability. They will be able to influence across complex environments, empower high-performing teams and lead meaningful change, while demonstrating a strong commitment to equity and inclusion, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the University’s values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and tiakitanga.

The Organisation

University of Canterbury has proudly been serving communities in New Zealand and the world for over 150 years. They now rank in the top 2% of universities worldwide. Their values—manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, and tiakitanga—help us empower others and be our best in our work, studies, and how we interact with each other.

Immersed in the heart of Ōtautahi – the second largest city in New Zealand – Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury provides an experience unlike any other university. They offer students endless opportunities for education, exploration and recreation, with all the conveniences of a modern city.

University of Canterbury experts teach a multitude of subjects. Many of the researchers are leaders in their field. We’re vetted for quality internally and externally to keep making sure we deliver the best learning experiences possible.

The Universities strategic vision commits the University of Canterbury to continue and strengthen its focus on four research themes; Resilient Cities and Communities, Sustainable Futures, Living Well and Technology for Humanity.

For more information on the University of Canterbury visit: https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/

Term of the Appointment

The successful candidate will be appointed to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic position as a term appointment (usually five years). Following the term, the successful candidate will transition into a continuing academic position at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor. Academic rank will be assessed at the appointment stage.

To Apply:

Future Leadership are managing this search campaign - do not apply via the UC vacancies webiste. If you wish to discuss this role further in confidence, please contact Andrew Norton and Anthony Ellis on +61 3 9016 6000, or via email to [email protected].

To apply, please click here or visit futureleadership.com.au and view the online advertisement via ‘Opportunities’.

Submit your application quoting Future Leadership reference UCAvca0926 and address your cover letter and resume to Andrew Norton and Anthony Ellis, of Future Leadership.

The deadline for applications is 11.59pm AEDT , Sunday 1 November 2026.

Your application should include:

1. A brief covering letter clearly quoting Future Leadership reference UCAvca0926
2. A statement detailing your experience relevant to the position and in line with the Selection
3. Criteria outlined on page 26, citing evidence to support your claims
4. A complete and current CV

Please ensure you receive an email acknowledgement confirming receipt of your application.