Principal Advisor - Maori Engagement and Workforce Development - Te Tai Tokerau Northland Project
Massey University
Massey University and Northland NZ, the economic development agency for Te Tai Tokerau Northland, are partnering to explore and develop opportunities for regionally delivered tertiary education and research in Te Tai Tokerau.
The College of Sciences at Massey University is seeking a Principal Advisor, Māori Engagement and Workforce Development (Massey University - Te Tai Tokerau Northland Project) to join our team, to be based in Northland. This position is a full-time, fixed-term opportunity from 1 September 2026 to 30 November 2027.
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi - About the role
Massey University and Northland NZ are partnering to explore and develop innovative tertiary education and research opportunities that support the aspirations and workforce needs of Te Tai Tokerau. As Principal Advisor, Māori Engagement and Workforce Development, you will play a key role in building strong relationships with iwi and hapū to co-design education, training and workforce initiatives that create meaningful outcomes for Māori communities.
With a particular focus on the food and fibre sector and the growing bioeconomy, you will help shape future pathways that build regional capability and support economic development across Northland. Working closely with Massey University, Northland NZ, iwi, hapū and industry stakeholders, you will lead strategic engagement, identify opportunities for programme and research development, and help turn community aspirations into sustainable workforce and learning solutions.
In this varied and rewarding role, you will:
- lead and coordinate the areas of responsibility detailed in the Position Purpose section of this document
- engage with the Massey University-Northland Inc. Steering Group, which provides advice and guidance to the project
- provide monthly written reports to the Strategic Lead, Academic Development and the Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) College of Sciences, detailing progress to date and plans for future work
- lead and coordinate the writing of key documents arising from the workforce and skills demands (and gap) analysis, the development of an academic portfolio and delivery model(s) to address 'the gap', and a business/investment case to be considered by the Massey Senior Leadership team
- develop and maintain effective working relationships with people within the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC), and the university to support the planning and implementation of initiatives in Te Tai Tokerau
- provide advice to the Strategic Lead, Academic Development and other members of Massey staff concerning new and emerging opportunities.
Mōu - About you
We're looking for someone with a relevant tertiary qualification and experience in:
- leading engagement with iwi and hapū
- evaluating workforce and skills demands
- leading and completing complex projects
- leadership and coordination of teams.
Ko ngā hua o te tūranga? - What's in it for you?
You'll join a collaborative, future-focused team who support world-class teaching and research across the University.
You will also receive up to 6.75% employer contribution to the UniSaver Superannuation Scheme, five university holidays each year in addition to annual leave and a subsidised Southern Cross Healthcare plan for you and your whānau.
The salary will depend on skills and experience.
Apply now and make an impact that matters!
Further enquiries should be directed to: Professor Doug Sutton, Strategic Lead, Academic Development, email at D.Sutton2@massey.ac.nz.
Closing date: 30 July 2026
