Te Pou Tiriti- Dunedin

Senior Leadership Position – Te Pou Tiriti

Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka – the University of Otago is seeking an experienced and visionary leader for the position of Te Pou Tiriti.

Responsibilities

In this important role you will lead the University’s Te Tiriti o Waitangi partnerships and relationships, in particular the operationalisation of Te Kaha Uia Te Kaha : the Mana-to-Mana Agreement with Papatipu Rūnaka ki Ōtākou (‘Kā Rūnaka’) and for overseeing Memoranda, current and future, between the University, Iwi, hapū and / or Māori provider partners with whom the University has an existing relationship (or with whom it wishes to develop a relationship). You will also offer coordination and support to the University in relation to te reo, tikaka and mātauraka Māori.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, Te Pou Tiriti has a direct reporting relationship to the Vice‑Chancellor with respect to the implementation of the Mana‑to‑Mana Work Programme. The role also has accountabilities to Te Kāhui Kāwanataka, the governance group overseeing Te Kaha Uia Te Kaha.

As a senior leader in the Māori Division, Te Pou Tiriti has a day‑to‑day reporting relationship with the Deputy Vice‑Chancellor, Māori and supports them by leading policies and initiatives that strengthen Te Tiriti o Waitangi partnerships and relationships, aligned with Vision 2040, Pae Tata 2030, and Te Aku Matua | Māori Strategic Framework 2030.

Qualifications & Experience

The ideal candidate must have extensive experience in Māori advancement at a senior leadership level, and a proven track record in the development and implementation of Māori-specific strategy and policy. We would also expect to see :

• Demonstrable understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, iwi dynamics and governance.
• High‑level interpersonal skills, including being an effective and competent public communicator.
• Skills in te reo and tikaka Māori, and experience in marae and other cultural settings.
• Strong people skills to develop effective relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire and engage staff.
• An appropriate tertiary qualification.
• Knowledge of the New Zealand public sector, and in particular, the University or tertiary sector is highly desirable.

Employment Details

This is a full‑time (37.5 hours), permanent position based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin. You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.

We offer a stimulating working environment, competitive salary, 5 weeks’ annual leave, and a 6.75% superannuation scheme.

How to Apply

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button below. Applications quoting reference number  will close on Sunday, 14 December 2025.

For further information, or to discuss the role in confidence, please contact Professor Jacinta Ruru, Deputy Vice‑Chancellor Māori or Hon Grant Robertson, Vice Chancellor via the contact information below.

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