Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Operations)

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VICE-CHANCELLOR'S OFFICE | TE TARI O TE TUMU WHAKARAE

Help shape the future of one of New Zealand's most influential institutions

The University of Otago | Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka is Aotearoa New Zealand's first and most research-intensive university, with a strong commitment to excellence, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a bold vision for the future.

We are seeking an outstanding senior leader to take on the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Operations). Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor, this newly established role will provide strategic leadership across the University's operational and service functions, ensuring the systems, people, infrastructure and services that underpin our academic mission are integrated, future focused and positioned for long term success.

Te mahi | The role

You will be one of the University's most senior leaders, responsible for ensuring the operational capability, organisational performance and strategic infrastructure required to deliver Otago's academic mission.

Leading a diverse portfolio that spans People and Culture; Digital Technologies; Property and Campus Development; Student Services and Pastoral Care; Operations; Sustainability; Risk, Assurance and Compliance; and Health, Safety and Wellbeing, you will bring together services, systems and people to create an integrated, future focused operating environment.

This is a role of significant scale and influence. You will partner closely with other university leaders including the Vice-Chancellor, Provost and fellow Deputy Vice-Chancellors to drive strategic priorities, lead institutional transformation and strengthen the foundations that support teaching, research and student success.

Kā pūkeka me kā wheako | Your skills and experience

You will be an accomplished executive with experience leading the operations of large, complex organisations through periods of change and transformation. Equally adept at shaping strategy and delivering results, you will be recognised for your ability to build organisational capability, inspire outstanding leaders, and align people, services and resources behind a shared vision.

You will bring strong commercial and governance expertise, exceptional stakeholder management skills, and the credibility to influence at the highest levels.  You will have knowledge, and ideally experience, of the work of universities and a commitment to supporting student and staff success. Above all, you will be motivated by the opportunity to help shape the future of one of New Zealand's most respected institutions and contribute to outcomes that make a meaningful difference for our students, staff and communities.

Pūroko | Further details

This is a full time (1.0 FTE), permanent position, based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

The University of Otago values diverse perspectives and is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace where staff and students can thrive.

For further information or to discuss the role in confidence, please contact Elena Calvert, Recruitment Manager, via the contact details below.

Tono | Application

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter via the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2601394 close on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.

Additional Information

Contact: Elena Calvert

Position details: Job Description &  Information for Candidates

Further Information: Department Website

Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

Location: About Dunedin

Primary Location
 NZL-SI-Dunedin
Employment Status
 Permanent 
Salary Level and Range
 The University is offering a remuneration level commensurate with the responsibilities of the position.
Organisation
 Vice-Chancellor's Office
Job Function
 Academic Leadership