Kaiwhakahaere | Manager, Student Leadership Programmes
- Victoria University of Wellington
- New Zealand
- Oct 27, 2026
Job Description:
- Are you passionate about empowering students to become global citizens and community leaders?
- Can you build meaningful partnerships and guide a dedicated team to deliver transformative student leadership experiences?
- Do you thrive in a values-driven environment where equity, sustainability, and personal growth are at the heart of student development?
Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role
Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a permanent, full-time Kaiwhakahaere Manager - Student Leadership Programmes who will contribute to shaping the future of student development at the University. This is primarily a campus-based role, with some flexibility in working arrangements.
Key responsibilities
- Leading the design, delivery and evaluation of the Kitea Impact Programme—our flagship co-curricular programme that fosters leadership, global citizenship, community engagement, personal growth, and sustainability among students.
- Cultivating strong relationships and collaborating with a wide range of partners, including University colleagues and students, the diplomatic community, global experiential organisations, and voluntary and community groups. These partnerships ensure students access meaningful service and leadership opportunities that reflect our commitment to civic engagement and social responsibility.
- Proven experience in leading complex programmes that support diverse learners and align with institutional goals
- A collaborative mindset and the ability to build strong relationships across academic, professional, and community settings
- A deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive practice
- Strong communication skills and the ability to inspire, influence, and innovate in a dynamic environment
This role sits within Te Maihi– Student Experience and Success, alongside passionate student services teams dedicated to student success.
Ō pūmanawa - About you
You are a visionary leader with a passion for student development and a knack for turning strategy into action.
Key requirements:
- Proven experience in leading complex programmes that support diverse learners and align with institutional goals.
- A collaborative mindset and the ability to build strong relationships across academic, professional, and community settings.
- A deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive practice.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to inspire, influence, and innovate in a dynamic environment.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives on creating impact, values equity and inclusion, and is excited to shape the future of student leadership at Te Herenga Waka.
Role Description: Click here to see further information, including salary details. Please note the initial appointment will be up to $110,000.
If this link is not available, click 'apply' to view this on the University careers page.
Close date for vacancy: 13 November 2026.
Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Karen Davis, Manutaki Tuarua—Deputy Director, Te Maihi—Student Experience and Success ([email protected]).
How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our careers page and not via email. Candidates must submit supporting documents along with their resume, such as a cover letter. We can only consider applicants who are citizens or residents of New Zealand or Australia or on a current working visa. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we may progress with suitable applicants prior to the application closing date.
Ētahi kōrero hai āwhina i a koe - Why you should join our team
Be part of Te Maihi – Student Experience and Success Directorate, a dynamic and student-centred team committed to supporting students throughout their university journey. Te Maihi brings together specialist teams that help students transition into university, engage in learning, overcome barriers, and achieve successful outcomes. Through collaboration, wellbeing support, and a strong focus on belonging and connection, Te Maihi helps students thrive from enrolment through to graduation.
About Us
Mō Te Herenga Waka - About Our University
Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.
Explore the many benefits of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in our strategic direction and learn more about our research expertise.