Dean Of Medicine

Job Description

Shape the future of medical education in Aotearoa through visionary leadership and equity-focused innovation.

Are you a respected leader with a strong academic and clinical background, a proven commitment to equity, and the ability to influence medical education nationally and internationally?

This is a rare opportunity to lead the establishment of the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine (NZGSM) at the University of Waikato, which will welcome its first cohort of students in

About the role

As Dean of Medicine, you will provide strategic, academic, and operational leadership for the NZGSM, ensuring its successful establishment, accreditation, and long-term sustainability.

You will guide the development of a graduate-entry medical programme that is culturally responsive, socially accountable, and equity-focused, with particular emphasis on primary care in regional and rural settings.

The Dean will lead a high-performing academic and clinical team, secure the commitment of placement providers, and oversee accreditation with the Australian Medical Council and the Medical Council of New Zealand.

Working in close partnership with iwi, Pacific, community, and health sector stakeholders, you will ensure the School reflects the aspirations of communities across Aotearoa and delivers graduates who are ready to serve in diverse healthcare settings.

The position is based in Hamilton, with national and international engagement expected.

Salary will be commensurate with seniority, experience, and the mana you bring to the role.

For more information about the role, please see the position description.

For a confidential korero, please contact Prof Jo Lane, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Division of Health at

All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted.

Who are you?

– Ko wai koe?

You are a distinguished clinical and academic leader with the credibility to engage confidently across government, iwi, the medical profession, and the wider health sector.

You hold a medical degree with current registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand, alongside postgraduate training in a recognised medical specialty.

With a strong record of academic and clinical achievement, you demonstrate a visible and enduring commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, cultural safety, and advancing equity for Maori, Pacific, and underserved communities.

Your experience will reflect proven capability in leading complex academic or clinical organisations, where you have successfully fostered workforce development, mentoring, and operational excellence.

You will bring deep expertise in culturally responsive medical education, with a strong understanding of innovative teaching methodologies and interprofessional collaboration that prepare graduates for the realities of contemporary healthcare.

In addition, you will be recognised for your credible record of research and scholarship, and for your ability to integrate research into clinical teaching, ensuring that medical education remains both evidence-informed and forward-looking.

Preferred attributes include experience in rural or primary care contexts, as well as strong business acumen and experience in leading organisational sustainability.

Ko wai matou?

– Who are we?

The Division of Health at the University of Waikato is dedicated to achieving better, fairer health outcomes across Aotearoa.

Our work spans Biomedical Sciences, Health Promotion, Human Performance Science, Midwifery, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Sport Development and Coaching.

A central strategic priority is the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine (NZGSM), which will welcome its first cohort of students in

The NZGSM will stand apart for its strong partnerships with iwi and communities, commitment to equity, and focus on preparing graduates who are culturally responsive, collaborative, and ready to serve regional and rural communities.

Why should you apply for this position?

– He aha nga take me tono mai ai koe?

This is a career-defining opportunity to lead the creation of Aotearoa's newest medical school and shape the future of a digital-first health education and equity-focused workforce development in Aotearoa New Zealand.

At the University of Waikato, we value integrity, creativity, diversity, and our enduring partnership with Maori.

We are committed to a workplace that is inclusive and mana-enhancing, and we welcome applications from candidates with the skills, authority, and vision to help us achieve our goals.

Our rankings reflect these strengths.

Working with us means you'll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply.

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research.

Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wananga ki te kaupapa kia whakoratohia te mea angitu orite ki nga tangata katoa.

Applications Close on Friday October 24,

Requisition number : #J-

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