Scholarships Specialist (Manaaki) at Education New Zealand, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Ko wai mātou - Who are we

At Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ), our purpose is to take New Zealand's education experiences to the world, delivering enduring economic, social, and cultural benefits. We are a global government agency that partners with local and international stakeholders to grow the value of New Zealand's international education sector. 

Our vision is bold, to more than double the export value of international education by 2034. Through research, insights, and strong relationships, we aim to create a better future for learners, education providers, and New Zealand.

Te āhua o Te Tūrunga - The nature of the position

As a Scholarships Specialist, reporting to the Manaaki Scholarships Lead, you will play a pivotal role in managing and sustaining key contractual relationships with contracted suppliers and providers in New Zealand and the Pacific.

In this role, you'll bring service delivery or operational expertise, along with strong account management skills, and a passion for building trusted, accountable relationships. You'll use these strengths to deliver meaningful impact through the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme.

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships help build prosperity, security, and sustainable growth in partner countries and fosters a lifetime connection to Aotearoa New Zealand and the leaders of tomorrow. ENZ works in partnership with MFAT to deliver the schemes that sit within the scholarship programme.

Your role will work closely with education providers and scheme suppliers in New Zealand and the Pacific to ensure high‑quality scholarship delivery for scholarship recipients from all over the world.

If you're adaptable, interested in international education, and driven to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Ngā tino Pūkenga/Wheako - Essential skills/experiences for the role

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Minimum three years' experience in service delivery or relationship management roles
• Performance management experience
• Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in an evolving programme environment and / or with operational cycles
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills, with a collaborative and empathetic style
• Proven ability to manage significant budgets and contracts effectively
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity when working with people from diverse backgrounds
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain decisions and outcomes clearly
• Awareness of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its relevance to work in Aotearoa New Zealand

The remuneration band for this role is $98 - $115K

Te tono - How to apply

To view the position description and to apply, please visit our careers website: careers.enz.govt.nz.

Remember to attach a covering letter that outlines why you are interested in the position and your CV, highlighting your skills, knowledge, and experience relevant to the role.

Please indicate in your application that you are legally entitled to work in New Zealand.

Applications close 5pm Friday 17 April 2026

We will be reviewing applications as they are received and may begin shortlisting suitable candidates prior to the closing date. If you are interested in this position, please apply as soon as possible.