Te Manu Taki – Māori School Engagement and Partnerships Lead

We are seeking a passionate and experienced leader to join AUT as Te Manu Taki – Kura Māori (Māori Schools) Engagement and Partnership Lead. This pivotal role sits within Brand & Marketing Services and the Office of Māori Advancement, and reports to the Director Future Student with a dotted line into Tu Pouhono. Applicants will have a high level of familiarity with Kura Māori across Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond and will bring prior experience in engagement with Kura Māori and Hāpori Māori. Importantly, this role requires Te Manu Taki to have existing relationships that will assist in strengthening connections between Kura Māori and AUT. You will lead exploratory and research-based engagement with Kura Māori, ensuring Māori voices shape AUT’s approach to school partnerships. Acting as a bridge between AUT and Māori education leaders, you will foster relationships grounded in reciprocity and mana-enhancement, co-design culturally responsive pathways, and develop insights that inform AUT’s long-term strategy for Māori student success. This is an exciting role offering the chance to make a meaningful impact on Māori education and AUT’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. To be successful in this role, you will have: 7–8 years’ experience in Māori engagement, education, or partnership development. Proficiency in Te Reo Māori and deep understanding of tikanga Māori and kawa. Experience applying Māori models of facilitation and engagement (hui, wānanga, kaupapa-based co-design). Strong relationship-building skills with kura, whānau, hapū, iwi, and Māori education networks. Strategic thinking, research capability, and project management skills. A commitment to equity, diversity, and AUT’s Te Aronui journey. An undergraduate degree; additional qualifications in education, Māori development, or related fields are desirable. A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and supportive of AUT’s Te Aronui journey.