Programme Manager

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS | TE TARI HŪ-O-TE-KŌHAO

DIVISION OF SCIENCES | TE ROHE A AHIKĀROA

About our team/Mō te tīma

This MBIE funded research programme is developing a photonic device that will be launched on high-altitude balloons and a stratospheric glider to detect ozone to improve the forecast of extreme weather events among other important modelling. The final launch is planned in collaboration with Antarctica New Zealand on a high-altitude balloon from Antarctica.

This five-year programme is led by Principal Investigator Professor Harald Schwefel, and brings together teams in photonics, atmospheric science, space engineering, and outreach, supported by international collaborators and an expert advisory board.

The role/Te Mahi

We are seeking a highly adaptable and proactive Programme Manager to lead the operational delivery of our research programme.

In this pivotal role you will work closely with the Principal Investigator and the leadership team ensuring the smooth coordination of activities across research institutions, partner companies and contractors, while managing stakeholder relationships and driving outreach and communications.

This is a dynamic position requiring someone with strong problem-solving skills, strategic thinking and the ability to manage complex partnerships across national and international networks.

Key tasks include:

•    Overseeing day-to-day operations, coordinating programme milestones and ensuring timely reporting to funders.

•    Maintaining and growing relationships with key stakeholders, including research partners, advisory boards and international collaborators

•    Leading the programmes communications strategy, including digital media, public relations and promotional activities.

•    Organising outreach and engagement activities and identifying new investors and partners.

Your skills and Experience/Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

We are looking for candidates with:

•    Proven experience managing complex programmes or large-scale administrative operations, with a track record of delivering outcomes on time and within scope.

•    Demonstrated understanding of NZ research funding systems and experience managing contracts, reporting and compliance.

•    Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships.

•    Outstanding written and verbal communication skills including the ability to chair multidisciplinary meetings and present complex ideas to technical and non-technical audiences.

•    Confidence in representing the programme externally, leading outreach and engagement initiatives.

Knowledge in some area of science as shown by a science degree would be highly advantageous.

Further details/Pūroko

This position is fixed term for two years, part-time (30 hours per week), located in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

The salary level for this position is provisionally evaluated as Level 6 - $75,631 to $80,503, Top of Range $88,750 and is subject to change.

You must be eligible to work in New Zealand to apply for this position.

We offer competitive salary, 5 weeks' annual leave and the ability to achieve real work/life balance.

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.

Application/Tono

To submit an application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button.  Application quoting reference number will close on Wednesday, 29 October 2025.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, the University reserves the right to close the vacancy at any time.