Portfolio Leader

Scion specialises in research, science and technology development for the forestry industry, wood products, and wood-derived materials and chemicals. We lead new technology development for renewables, bioproducts and energy and the establishment of a broader-based bioeconomy. We are home to creative minds, and we have a vibrant culture ensuring employees can pursue innovation and excellence in their research delivery through science and mātauranga. We see the infusion of mātauranga Māori into our research playing a critical role.

Scion's new 2030 strategy - Transitioning New Zealand to a Circular Bioeconomy - focuses on providing New Zealand with methods for understanding the non-monetary benefits derived from our landscapes and forests and increasing forest wellbeing, and hence the health of the people: increasing value from forests grown for market and developing a new primary industry of biofuels and bioplastics.

With a newly established structure in place to ensure we have the right capability and talent to deliver on this 2030 vision, we are currently recruiting for a Portfolio Leader to lead the 'Indigenous Trees for Distinct Value Wood Products' portfolio. It is our desire that this portfolio is mātauranga Māori led, and Scion is looking to bring further skill into its Te Ao Māori research capability group.

Under the Forests to Timber Products impact area, this portfolio bundles the intrinsic, cultural, economic, and environmental value of our unique indigenous trees and lands. It is about developing business opportunities that are Māori led, and science and sector supported and in turn delivering new benefits to regions. The scope of this portfolio spans co-innovation pathways, protocols, and benefit sharing to unlock the potential of specialty indigenous supply chains and products. This portfolio focuses on resetting the existing and new indigenous wood systems to leverage the mana and mauri of the many forest products grown on Māori and private land; to model, design the support, and communicate the distinct value of these systems as key enablers in a post-2030 circular bioeconomy. This will be achieved via reinstating te mana me te mauri o te taiao and customary kaitiakitanga practice in equitable post-2030 forest partnerships whilst supporting the aspirations of Te Ao Māori to enhance the distinct value wood properties and timber quality of New Zealand indigenous trees; using approaches that intentionally grow indigenous timber value chains and certified market segments that align to next generation value. Unlocking the potential of specialty indigenous wood products with unique Aotearoa cultural philosophies, design thinking to develop novel indigenous supply chains incorporating tikanga, science and industry know-how and incorporation of mātauranga Māori inspired wood uses for high-value export-ready appearance products.

This role will suit someone with:

- Doctoral-level degree or equivalent experience, as well as proven track record of developing programmes of work that bring together multiple knowledge sources, industry and end-users together. Demonstrative strategic thinking for impact from scientific outcomes. A record of thought leadership and creation of new ideas and initiatives that demonstrates a track record of translating science to impact.
- Strong knowledge in mātauranga Māori, kaupapa Māori and the intrinsic and deep value that Māori values play in forestry.
- Recognised and respected among iwi/hapū for bringing solutions that are derived from both Mātauranga and science-based knowledge systems.
- Ability to develop and maintain productive relationships with Māori asset holders, Government agencies and the public to convert the portfolio aspirations into tangible outcomes.
- A sound knowledge of the Treaty of Waitangi and what it means and how it applies to the portfolio.
- Strong knowledge and competency in te reo Māori me ōna tikanga.
- Proven leadership experience, a minimum of 10 years, including progressive work experience, including project management and/or product management. Or recognition through participation on national platforms, i.e. National Science Challenges.
- Extensive experience in managing projects, scientific research, and developing and/or working with multi-disciplinary teams to deliver to exceed expectations.
- Continuing knowledge through education, career training and memberships.
- Extensive experience as a practicing researcher, recognised as an impact authority and leader in their field.
- Significant experience and success with research and publication, grant writing and fundraising - understanding of the system and political landscape.
- Strong track record of relationship building with end-users and demonstrable examples of leadership (influencing end-users and stakeholders).
- Strong focus on outcomes and continuous improvement.
- Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource all