Scholarships Team Leader, Postgraduate Programmes

Role Overview

Lead and innovate postgraduate scholarship programmes that enhance student academic success and research excellence at the University of Waikato's Hillcrest Campus. This role involves guiding a team responsible for managing scholarships, bursaries, and prizes for both taught and research postgraduate students, fostering meaningful opportunities through strategic leadership and partnership development.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee a pioneering postgraduate scholarship programme to support student achievement.
• Promote postgraduate student success by providing financial assistance through scholarships.
• Utilize data analysis to inform new initiatives and stimulate scholarship growth.
• Lead the Scholarship Advisors team ensuring efficient, student-centered scholarship services.
• Collaborate closely with academic leaders, scholarship committees, and external stakeholders to enhance funding delivery fairness and effectiveness.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a strategic and organized leader skilled at balancing visionary planning with operational execution. Experience in team leadership, managing complex funding or scholarship programs, and dedication to exceptional student and stakeholder service are essential.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Strong financial acumen combined with analytical and project management expertise.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
• Competence in managing complex policies, regulations, and procedures.
• Collaborative mindset with ability to work effectively across diverse groups.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and continuous improvement.
• Respect for and commitment to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

About the Department

The Te Mata Kairangi School of Graduate Research provides strategic leadership and administration for postgraduate higher research degree programmes, scholarships, awards, and prizes, creating an enabling environment for postgraduate students to thrive and contribute globally.

Additional Information

• This is a full-time position (37.5 hours weekly) based onsite at the Hillcrest Campus.
• Salary range: NZD 102,611 to 113,428 annually, dependent on expertise and experience.
• Applicants must be legally entitled to live and work in New Zealand as per immigration regulations.
• The University values diversity and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
• Applications close on Sunday, August 30, 2026.

For further insight, contact Prof Emma Nicholson, Dean of Graduate Research.