Chief Executive – Otago Polytechnic

THE OPPORTUNITY

Te Kura Matatini ki Otago/Otago Polytechnic, stands at a pivotal moment in its proud history. As it re-emerges as an independent Institute of Technology and Polytechnic (ITP) on 1 January 2026, it will reclaim local governance, decision-making, and regional leadership, restoring a direct line of accountability to the communities and industries it serves.

Located in Ōtepoti Dunedin, with a strong presence across the wider Otago region, the Polytechnic is recognised nationally and internationally for its applied learning, research innovation, and deep community connections. This is a unique opportunity for a visionary and collaborative Chief Executive to lead an organisation ready to reset, rebuild, and rise.

Otago is an entrepreneurial and creative region, home to bold partnerships between education, business, and community. The new Chief Executive will harness this spirit, building on Otago Polytechnic’s legacy of innovation to expand its international profile, strengthen regional industry engagement, and grow its contribution to the region’s economic and social wellbeing.

This is more than a leadership role; it is a chance to help shape the future of vocational education in one of Aotearoa’s most distinctive and dynamic regions.

THE ROLE

Reporting to the Otago Polytechnic Council, the Chief Executive will provide strategic leadership across all aspects of the organisation’s operations, performance, and culture. This includes ensuring robust academic governance, financial sustainability, and operational excellence, while leading the transition to independent status.

The role demands an experienced organisational leader who can guide Otago Polytechnic through a critical period of change, from stabilisation and cultural renewal through to growth and innovation. Rebuilding trust, confidence, and unity within the leadership team and across the organisation will be paramount, as will strengthening relationships with iwi, industry, local government, and education partners, including the University of Otago.

The Chief Executive will be instrumental in positioning Otago Polytechnic as a regional and national leader in applied education, one that is future-focused, community-connected, and internationally engaged. This will require courage, foresight, and a deep understanding of the Otago ecosystem, its industries, people, and potential.

THE CANDIDATE

The successful candidate will be an accomplished senior leader with a record of leading complex public or tertiary organisations through transformation and growth. They will demonstrate the ability to think strategically, act decisively, and lead authentically, balancing vision with operational discipline.

They will have proven success in building high-performing leadership teams, fostering organisational resilience, and embedding values-based culture. A natural collaborator and connector, they will be able to bring people together, across universities, government, iwi, and industry, to achieve shared outcomes and lift regional prosperity.

Above all, they will be a leader who inspires confidence, unites purpose, and ensures Otago Polytechnic continues to deliver life-changing education that strengthens individuals, industries, and communities.

HOW TO APPLY

The closing date for applications is Friday, 31st October 2025. The reference number to include in your application is H25_5284.