Director Strategy, Planning & Reporting

Job Description:

Lead the University's strategic planning, performance reporting and insights functions to support informed decision-making and achievement of strategic goals.

Mō te tūka | The role

Based in our Planning & Reporting Office, this leadership role is responsible for leading the planning, reporting and performance framework that supports the development, implementation and monitoring of Lincoln University’s strategic direction and priorities.

Working closely with the Vice-Chancellor, Senior Leadership Team and Council, you will provide strategic advice, insights and decision support that help shape the University's future direction.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the University's strategic planning and performance framework.
• Providing strategic advice and insights to the Vice-Chancellor, Senior Leadership Team and Council.
• Leading integrated planning processes across faculties and service divisions.
• Overseeing organisational performance reporting, forecasting and modelling.
• Leading the identification and management of strategic risks and opportunities.
• Building and developing a high-performing Planning & Reporting Office.

This is a unique opportunity to influence University-wide planning, performance and reporting while leading a team focused on delivering meaningful insights and organisational outcomes.

Mahi & Wāhi / Utu | Work pattern, location & salary

This permanent role is based at our Lincoln Campus and works 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE).

Kā tino Pūkeka/Whēako | Essential skills/experience for the role

You will bring:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in business, strategy, economics, public policy, data analytics or a related field, or equivalent senior leadership experience.
• Significant leadership experience in strategy, planning, analytics or a similar function within a large and complex organisation.
• Proven experience leading organisation-wide strategic planning and performance management processes.
• Strong capability in strategic analysis, forecasting, modelling and translating insights into actionable recommendations.
• Experience providing high-quality advice and decision support to senior executives and governance bodies.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships across a broad range of internal and external stakeholders.

• Alignment with Manaakitaka and Lincoln University values.

Kā hua ka riro ki a koe | What's in it for you?

Join a supportive, inclusive community that values diversity, wellbeing, and professional growth. Benefits include:

• Flexible, family‑friendly work + free on‑site parking
• Professional development & mentorship to grow your career
• Generous leave entitlements – six weeks of paid leave per year (based on 1.0 FTE)
• Annual salary reviews to recognise your contribution
• Contributions toward eye tests and prescription eyewear
• Free, confidential wellbeing support through Clearhead (EAP)
• Southern Cross employee benefits
• Access to on‑campus gym with discounted membership
• On‑site early childhood centre with staff discounts
• A vibrant campus lifestyle with cafés, green spaces, and a sense of community

Mō mātou | About us

Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki | Lincoln University is a specialist institution dedicated to impactful research and higher education that supports land-based industries in New Zealand and globally.

Our campus sits at the heart of the Lincoln research precinct, complemented by university-owned farms and research stations that blend education, research, and hands-on learning. At Lincoln, students are at the heart of everything we do, empower them to grow their potential and contribute to a more sustainably productive world through world-class teaching and research.

As a progressive university with an ambitious vision, we value a professional workforce that reflects the diversity of our community. Our staff engage with students, parents, government, iwi, and external stakeholders, upholding Lincoln University’s reputation through their work.

Our Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments begin with mana whenua. We honour our special relationship with Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki and Te Taumutu Rūnanga, embedded in our He Tūtohinga Whakamātau | Charter of Understanding.

Tono ināianei | Apply now

Ready to apply? Submit your CV and a cover letter that highlights your fit - tell us why you want this role and what motivates you to join Lincoln University.

Applications received via email will not be considered, however specific enquiry relating to the role can be made to [email protected]

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels valued and supported, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

We are only considering applicants who have current unrestricted legal working rights in New Zealand. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role.

View the position description at: https://careers.lincoln.ac.nz