Senior Manager - Student Recruitment

Job Description:

• Opportunity to lead an enthusiastic and high performing team in a role where you can really make a difference
• Build and maintain strong relationships across the university and schools sector to develop outreach and engagement that provides meaningful pathways to tertiary for future students
• Join an amazing work culture – collaborative, supportive and driven by innovative ideas and
• Permanent, full-time role based at AUT's City Campus

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is bold and unapologetically different, centred on students and grounded in Knowledge that Works driven by talented, progressive people. We are New Zealand’s newest university, ranked 5-stars by QS Universities 2025 and a place of opportunity where more than 26,000 students with talent and potential succeed, supported by a community of more than 4,000 staff based primarily across three Auckland campuses. Built on collaboration, shared purpose and the values of Pono (fact, truth, reality, integrity), Tika (acting accordingly, doing what is needed, ethical expression), and Aroha (empathy, care, compassion). AUT offers an innovative, forward-thinking environment where committed people work together to improve outcomes for students, communities, and the world.

AUT recognises the importance of Te Tiriti, Māori and Pacific knowledge, leadership, and contribution across our university and is committed to creating environments where these communities can thrive. We embrace diversity in all its forms and are proud to welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.

Brand and Marketing Services looks after how AUT shows up in the world – and why it matters. We’re the stewards of the brand and the engine behind campaigns that build reputation, spark interest and turn curiosity into connection. Working side by side with faculties and professional services, we combine insight, creativity and digital thinking to create joined-up experiences that feel consistent and human. From first enquiry to enrolment, graduation and long after, we help people see themselves at AUT – and stay connected for the long run.

The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi 

For the right candidate this role presents an exceptional opportunity to develop and deliver future student activities and programmes, aligned to AUT’s Te Kete strategy, and our commitment to delivering a student-centred world class educational experience, even before our students walk through the door.  

You will be working alongside and leading a team of experienced professionals, who work in schools and across our communities to deliver inspiring and informative presentations, workshops, events and university transition programmes. Our whole purpose is to open up opportunities for our future students, and ensure they have pathways and support to join us.  

If you are passionate about the transformative power of education, keen to do work that makes a difference, and want to be a part of a team and university that is grounded in Knowledge that Works and truly committed to delivering a different experience for our future students this might be the role for you.  

About you | Ko wai koe 

If you’re the kind of person who isn’t afraid to try new things, explore bold ideas and inject real energy and

passion into the entire university experience - you’ll fit right in. 

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Experience in the tertiary sector, ideally in the student recruitment space, working with prospective and/or new to university students
• Experience in managing a team and proven ability in training and development of team members
• Knowledge of the secondary school sector and proven ability to build strong relationships and partnerships in this space
• Be process driven with a commitment to constantly reviewing activities and programmes to ensure they are fit for purpose and in line with best practice in recruitment and student engagement
• A full clean NZ drivers license in a requirement of this role.
• A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Supportive of AUT’s Te Aronui journey (https://www.aut.ac.nz/about/maori/auts-commitment-to-Te-Tiriti-o-Waitangi)

As a professional member of staff at AUT, you’ll help keep us moving forward. From improving our services and streamlining our systems to supporting the experiences of students and staff across our campuses. By working collaboratively, solving problems and driving practical improvements, you’ll play a vital role in helping us operate smoothly, raise our profile, and evolve what we do, every day.

You will bring an open, engaging, and collaborative approach, with the flexibility to respond to changing requirements, and actively contribute to a positive and collegial environment. You will demonstrate cultural humility, awareness, and respect when engaging with indigenous peoples and culturally diverse communities.

Experience supporting indigenous, equity, or inclusion focused initiatives is highly desirable.

What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

At AUT, you’ll be part of a values-led university that supports you to thrive in your role and career. We offer:

• Flexible working and a strong, caring culture that supports belonging.
• Recognition frameworks that reflect your contribution and how you live our values.
• The tools and trust to make a meaningful difference every day.
• Māori and Pacific development programmes that strengthen our shared purpose.
• Cultural capability uplift development programmes for all staff
• Professional development and funded study pathways to keep you moving forward.
• Free gym membership.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono 

Along with your CV - please ensure to submit a cover letter which a) explains why this role (and AUT) is  a) of interest, and b) addresses how you feel you meet some, or all, of the key criteria listed above.

Please feel free to add any further comments you feel may also support your application. All applications must be submitted through the online application process. 

Further Information | Pārongo Anō 

Start Date: TBC dependent on applicant

Salary Ranges | Ngā Utu: $110,000 - $131,000 per annum (dependent on experience and qualifications)

For further information: please send us an enquiry here or call 09 921 9499.  

Closing Date | Te rā aukati: 13 July 2026 11:55pm

Job Reference | Tohutoro Mahi: 95935

*Full-time denotes 37.5 hours per week

This role is considered a children’s worker role and will be subject to safety checks as part of the Children’s Act 2014.   

At AUT we strive to be a place where people love to work and learn. We are committed to te Tiriti, excellence and inclusivity and aspire to be the University of choice for Māori and Pacific communities. We welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.

Please note that all applications must be submitted through the online application process. For further information, please send us an enquiry here or call 921 9499. Please note we are happy to answer your questions but we do not accept applications by email. You will need to apply through the standard registration process.

Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou ka ora ai te iwi.

With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.