Change and Communications Lead at The University of Waikato, Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Drive adoption across major ICT initiatives
• Embedded in project delivery, working from impact to adoption
• Supportive culture and purpose-driven work

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

Are you passionate about helping people successfully adopt new ways of working? As the Change and Communications Lead, you'll play a critical role in ensuring ITS projects deliver real value by supporting staff and stakeholders through change.

You'll provide change leadership across the ITS project portfolio, embedding change management and communication activities from project initiation through to operational handover. Working closely with project managers, business analysts and leaders, you'll lift change maturity by coaching others, applying structured methodologies and enabling leaders to confidently champion change.

You'll also design and deliver clear, targeted communications that drive engagement, readiness and adoption. Acting as a key connector between ITS, the wider University change community and governance groups, you'll help ensure change outcomes are cohesive, user-centred and aligned with the University's vision and values.

Salary will be in the range of $99,865 to $110,392 per year based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a full-time role (37.5 hours per week), based on our Hillcrest Campus.

For more information on the role, please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Olivia Derecourt-Griffin, Head of Project Delivery, at olivia.derecourt-griffin@waikato.ac.nz

All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early applications are encouraged.

Ko wai koe? - Who are you?

You're an experienced change and communications professional with a strong track record of leading technology-enabled change in complex organisations. You bring relevant tertiary qualifications and formal change management training (such as Prosci/ADKAR), and you're confident designing and delivering structured change, engagement and communication plans that support successful adoption. You're comfortable working alongside project teams, advising senior leaders and navigating governance environments with clarity and credibility.

Consultative, adaptable and strategic, you're able to simplify complexity and communicate clearly with diverse audiences. You build strong, trust-based relationships and thrive in fast-paced, evolving environments. You're committed to continuous improvement, equity and diversity, and you value partnership with Māori in line with Te Tiriti o Waitangi, bringing cultural awareness and respect to your work.

Don't meet every single requirement?

Research shows that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At the University of Waikato, we're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and genuine workplace. So, if you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly match every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You might be just the right person for this or another opportunity on our team.

Ko wai mātou? - Who are we?

The Information Technology Services (ITS) Division is responsible for the coordination of information and communications technology (ICT) planning for the University, the delivery of robust, reliable core ICT infrastructure and enterprise systems, and the provision of professional ICT consultancy and customer-focused support services.

The ICT vision is 'To engage, enable, innovate and protect our ICT services, and empower the University of Waikato to leverage the value of ICT to achieve its strategic goals.'

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? - Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success. Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you'll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand in accordance with New Zealand Immigration regulations, which can be found here.

Ko te Tangata - For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications close: This role will remain open until filled.

Requisition number: 1003239