Are you passionate about enhancing student experiences?
Do you have proven experience in leading and managing complex projects?
Have you got the ability to work effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders?
Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the roleTe Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a Principal Adviser, Strategic Projects to join the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students) on a fixed-term basis until the end of March 2026.Key responsibilities:
Provide strategic advice to the DVC(S) on student-centric initiatives, informing planning and policy development.
Research and analyse data to identify opportunities for improvement and offer solutions.
Design and implement strategies that positively impact student outcomes, working with cross-functional teams.
Lead and manage projects, ensuring viable execution and stakeholder engagement.
Advocate for change, influencing internal and external partners to achieve University goals.
Enhance student experiences by mapping customer journeys and implementing effective solutions.
Monitor and evaluate the DVC(S) portfolio, measuring success and adapting strategies.
Proactively contribute to policy development and ensure compliance.
Represent the DVC(S) in networks and working groups, advocating for student success.
Facilitate workshops and collaborate with stakeholders for shared objectives.
Ensure project costs and timelines are managed effectively.
Report health and safety hazards, promoting a vibrant workplace culture.
Ō pūmanawa - About youYou are a strategic, student-focused professional with a proactive mindset and a passion for enhancing the student experience. You bring strong analytical skills, a collaborative approach, and the ability to influence and lead change across diverse stakeholder groups.Your excellent interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and ability to manage complexity and conflict make you a trusted advisor. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to evidence-based decision-making, you thrive in dynamic environments and are confident managing multiple priorities. This role will suit someone who is innovative, resilient, and motivated by meaningful work that drives positive outcomes for students and the University.Key requirements:
Ability to provide high-level, evidence-based advice to senior leadership on student-focused initiatives.
Proven experience in leading and managing complex projects, including stakeholder engagement and change management.
Strong skills in researching, analysing, and interpreting data to inform strategy and decision-making.
Commitment to enhancing student success and experience through innovative and proactive solutions.
Ability to work effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders, influencing outcomes and advocating for change.
Experience contributing to policy development and ensuring alignment with institutional and regulatory requirements.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to represent the DVC(S) in networks and working groups.
Skilled in facilitating workshops and collaborative sessions to achieve shared objectives.
Ability to manage project timelines and budgets effectively.
Commitment to promoting a safe and vibrant workplace culture.
Role Description:Close date for vacancy: 16 September 2025.Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role, please get in touch with Logan Bannister, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students) (+64 4 887 4308, logan.bannister@vuw.ac.nz).How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our career's page and not via email. When applying for this position, candidates must submit supporting documents along with their resume, such as a cover letter. Applicants who do not have residency or citizenship and require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application and understand that if they do not have a current, relevant visa, they will need to secure this independently.We can only consider applicants who are citizens or residents of New Zealand or Australia or on a current working visa. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we may progress with suitable applicants prior to the application closing date. Applications from recruitment agencies are not accepted.About Us:Mō Te Herenga Waka - About Our Universityis renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in and learn more about our .About the Team:Ētahi kōrero hai āwhina i a koe - Why you should join our teamEnhancing the student experience through innovative support services and programs, the Office of the DVC, Students fosters public engagement and community connection. Engage with a diverse student body, contribute to their academic and personal growth, and help shape the future leaders of tomorrow in a vibrant and supportive environment.
