Horticulture Stakeholder Development Officer

Massey University is committed to shaping the future of New Zealand’s food and fibre sectors. With a proud legacy of excellence in agriculture, food, and horticulture, we are now seeking an experienced professional to deepen and expand our engagement with New Zealand’s horticulture industry.

This full-time, two-year fixed term role based in Palmerston North is a rare opportunity to influence national direction at the nexus of tertiary education, research, and industry growth. As the Horticulture Stakeholder Development Officer, you will play a pivotal role in connecting Massey University with key players across the horticulture sector and beyond, ensuring our offerings and research are aligned with real-world industry needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and strengthen strategic relationships with horticulture industry stakeholders, relevant organisations, and the agricultural sector.
• Conduct market analysis of current horticulture qualifications at the tertiary level and assess their alignment with industry requirements.
• Collaboratively design and develop new education and training programmes that meet emerging sector needs.
• Champion Massey University’s research capabilities and help broker new partnerships in research, consultancy, and innovation.
• Act as a key liaison between industry and the University to enhance collaboration, relevance, and impact.

About You

You are a dynamic relationship-builder with a strong background in the horticulture industry and a proven track record in business development, partnership management, or educational programme development.

Essential Criteria:

• A relevant tertiary qualification and/or substantial experience in the horticulture industry.
• A minimum of five years' experience in business development or educational training, preferably within the horticulture sector.
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement, client relationship management, or industry liaison roles.
• A strong understanding of industry needs and an ability to translate these into educational and research opportunities.

Why Massey?

Join a world-leading university with a deep-rooted connection to New Zealand’s primary industries. At Massey, we are future-focused, innovative, and committed to making a real difference in Aotearoa and beyond. You’ll be part of a passionate team within the School of Agriculture and Environment, contributing to sector resilience and advancement.

Appointments will be reflective of skills and experience within a Grade 7 $80,984 - $113,805 (2025) range. 

Be the bridge between innovation and industry – and help cultivate the future of horticulture in New Zealand.

http://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/explore/departments/school-agriculture-environment/school-agriculture-environment_home.cfm