Senior Finance Business Partner - Research

Senior Finance Business Partner - Research

Join to apply for the Senior Finance Business Partner - Research role at University of Auckland

We are seeking a commercially astute and experienced Senior Finance Business Partner to lead the financial management of our Research Platforms and shape the consolidated financial position of Research across the institution. This role carries joint financial and commercial responsibility for our Research Platforms, ensuring they are sustainable, high-performing, and positioned for growth and innovation. In addition, you contribute to the overall financial view of the Institutions research activities, working closely with Faculty Finance Directors, RIO, Research Directors, and the existing Senior Finance Business Partner for Research.

A key focus of this role is to support the Institutions shift toward more mature, portfolio-based planning and capability development, enabling better strategic alignment, investment decisions, and long‑term sustainability. This is a unique opportunity to maximise the impact of our research infrastructure and deliver a cohesive financial narrative for research at the institutional level.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead financial strategy for research platforms : budgeting, forecasting, pricing, and performance reporting.
• Partner with research and finance leaders to set financial targets, optimise cost recovery, and support growth.
• Develop business cases and pricing models that balance financial sustainability with supported access.
• Drive strategic insights on funding models, resource allocation, and commercial opportunities.
• Coordinate institution‑wide research financials, delivering clear, integrated reporting to senior leadership.
• Shape policy and manage risk, ensuring compliance and contributing to best‑practice financial frameworks.

Qualifications

Ideally, you will have experience in a university or research‑intensive environment and familiarity with grant funding, IP commercialisation, or research contracts.

What We Offer

This is a full‑time (37.5 hours per week), Permanent position. Salary range $170,000–$185,000 dependant on experience.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of Sunday 23rd November 2025, to be considered. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above. We do not accept applications by email.

The University of Auckland is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQI+ and people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances, visit .

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