Schools & Community Partnerships Lead
- Auckland University of Technology
- New Zealand, AUK
- Aug 24, 2026
Job Description:
- Be part of a team committed to making a difference for our future students
- Drive co-designed partnerships that support Māori and Pacific student success
- Work in a collaborative, values-led environment committed to equity and inclusion
- Permanent, full-time role based at AUT's City Campus
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is New Zealand's newest university and one of its most distinctive. Centred on students and grounded in knowledge that works, AUT is 5-star rated by QS, with more than 27,000 students and 4,000 staff based primarily across three Auckland campuses. It's a place of real opportunity, where the values of Pono, Tika and Aroha shape how talented, progressive people work together – and you'll feel that in the culture, in the collaboration and in the difference the work makes for students, communities and the world.
Our community is stronger because of the role Te Tiriti plays in how we operate, and because Māori and Pacific knowledge, leadership and contribution are central to who we are. We embrace diversity in all its forms and are proud to welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.
Brand and Marketing Services looks after how AUT shows up in the world – and why it matters. We’re the stewards of the brand and the engine behind campaigns that build reputation, spark interest and turn curiosity into connection.
Working side by side with faculties and professional services, we combine insight, creativity and digital thinking to create joined‑up experiences that feel consistent and human. From first enquiry to enrolment, graduation and long after, we help people see themselves at AUT – and stay connected for the long run.
The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi
We are seeking an innovative and creative thinker who is passionate about the power of education, to lead the ongoing development of our Schools and Community Partnerships portfolio within the Student Recruitment team. Reporting to the Senior Manager – Student Recruitment this role leads the development and implementation of partnership programmes co-designed with stakeholders to support pathways to tertiary study for priority student cohorts. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a team, division and university committed to knowledge that works.
About the role:
- Build and foster collaborative relationships with identified partners in the secondary school's sector to co-design programmes of work that will positively influence outcomes and pathways for Māori and Pacific students
- Provide leadership and guidance to two direct reports who will work alongside you to build and deliver a programme of work intended to support future students in gaining the skills, understanding and knowledge they need to progress to tertiary study
- Work collaboratively with existing teams in the division to best utilise the experience and skills of colleagues to compliment this programme of work
- Build relationships across the university to inform and support initiatives
- Reporting and tracking of initiatives and outcomes
What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou
At AUT you’ll be part of a values-led university with a strong, caring culture, flexible working, generous annual leave and support to thrive in your role and career. We provide the tools, trust, recognition frameworks and cultural capability development programmes to help you make a meaningful contribution. Learn more about our competitive benefits tailored to all staffhttps://www.aut.ac.nz/about/careers-at-aut/working-at-aut/staff-benefits.
https://www.aut.ac.nz/about/careers-at-aut/working-at-aut/staff-benefits
About you | Ko wai koe
As a professional staff member at AUT, you’ll help our university thrive by improving services, supporting students and staff and driving practical improvements across our campuses. We’re looking for people with energy, curiosity and openness to new ideas who bring a collaborative, adaptable approach and contribute to a positive workplace culture.
You’ll also bring cultural humility and respect for Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Indigenous peoples and diverse communities. Experience supporting Indigenous, equity or inclusion-focused initiatives is highly valued.
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- Experience in co-designing programmes of work, with the skills to weave different requirements to best meet the needs of our Māori and Pacific students and their schools
- Excellent relationship management skills, with proven experience building meaningful and collaborative relationships with a range of stakeholders at all levels
- Knowledge of NZQA and ability to keep abreast of curriculum changes and developments in the education sector
- Experience and relationships in the secondary school sector is preferred
- The ability to connect with people from a diverse range of backgrounds
- A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and supportive of AUT’s Te Aronui journey.
How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono
Along with your CV, please submit a cover letter which a) explains why this role (and AUT) is of interest, and b) addresses how you feel you meet some, or all, of the key criteria listed above.
Please note - all applications must be submitted through the online application process on AUT’s careers website.]
Further Information | Pārongo Anō
- Salary Ranges | Ngā Utu: $93,000 - $110,000 per annum (dependent on experience and qualifications)
- For further information: please send us an enquiry or call 09 921 9499
Closing Date | Te rā aukati: 7 September 2026, 11:55pm
Job Reference | Tohutoro Mahi: 96548
*Full-time denotes 37.5 hours per week
This role is considered a children’s worker role and will be subject to safety checks as part of the Children’s Act 2014.
Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou ka ora ai te iwi.
With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.