Divisional Senior Manager - Commerce

Job Description:

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BUSINESS SCHOOL | TE KURA PAKIHI
DIVISIONAL SERVICES AND ADMINISTRATION | WHAKARATOKA ME NGĀ WHAKARITEKA Ā-WĀHAKA

The University of Otago’s Division of Commerce | Otago Business School is one of New Zealand’s leading business schools, recognised internationally for excellence in teaching, research, and engagement. Through transformative education, impactful research, and strong partnerships with industry, government, iwi, and communities, the School develops responsible leaders and contributes to the economic and social prosperity of Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.

Within the Operations Group, Divisional Services and Administration provides the professional leadership and operational excellence that enables this work to thrive. We’re now seeking a dynamic senior leader to partner with the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Commerce (PVC) and help guide the next chapter of the Otago Business School.

The role | Te mahi

This is a true operational leadership role at the heart of the University of Otago’s Division of Commerce | Otago Business School. Working in close partnership with the PVC and Dean, you will contribute to the operational and strategic leadership of the Division, helping to shape its direction, strengthen organisational capability, and deliver on its priorities in teaching, research, engagement, and impact.

As a trusted advisor operating across both the Commerce Divisional leadership team and Divisional Services and Administration, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across a diverse portfolio. You will ensure the Division is well-positioned to respond to emerging opportunities and challenges.

You will:
• Partner with the PVC and Dean to advance the Division’s strategic priorities and long-term aspirations.
• Lead divisional services and act as the conduit for professional services into the Division, building capability, collaboration, and high performance.
• Lead organisational performance, planning, change, risk, and resource stewardship.
• Foster strong relationships and influence across the University, enabling collaboration and alignment in support of Divisional and institutional goals.
• Lead initiatives that strengthen organisational effectiveness, and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Champion a collaborative, inclusive, and values-led culture that empowers staff and supports excellence in teaching, research, and external engagement.
• Contribute to the School’s ongoing development and impact, strengthening its reputation and influence locally and internationally.

This role will appeal to a strategic and operational leader who combines sound judgement with a collaborative leadership style, thrives in complex environments, and is motivated by enabling organisational success through people, partnerships, and purposeful change.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

You will bring:
• Senior leadership experience in a large, complex organisation, with strength in operations, organisational performance, and people leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams and leaders.
• Broad general management experience, with exposure across planning, finance, HR, and operational delivery.
• Strong relationship management skills, with the credibility to influence across diverse stakeholder groups and navigate competing priorities.
• A track record of delivering outcomes — translating strategy into action and seeing initiatives through to completion.
• Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and cultural capability grounded in respect for te ao Māori and Pasifika values.

While tertiary experience is beneficial, what matters most is your ability to lead with impact, operate at a senior level, and contribute meaningfully to the success of the Division.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a permanent, full-time (37.5 hours per week) position, based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

The appointment range for this role is $115,332 to $129,355 per annum. Top of the range is $143,378.

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people and behaviours. This means that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives are valued and respected.

For further information, please contact Cherie McConville via the contact details below.

Application | Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button below. Applications quoting reference number 2600889 will close on Sunday 21 June 2026.

Contact: Cherie McConville Tel: 021 279 6861

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

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Location: About Dunedin