Office Manager, Future Learning and Development

About the Role

The University of Canterbury invites applications for the position of Office Manager within the Future Learning and Development team. This is a full-time, permanent role based in Christchurch (Otautahi), New Zealand, with an option for 0.8 to 0.9 full-time equivalent considered. The successful candidate will ensure smooth administrative operations, provide high-level support to leadership, and drive strategic coordination to advance the team's goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the Dean’s and Leadership team's schedules, meetings, and communications.
• Supervise and coordinate the Future Learning and Development administrator to ensure effective task delegation and completion.
• Oversee board and governance activities, including preparing agendas and taking minutes.
• Handle office management tasks such as procurement and budget monitoring to support strategic objectives.
• Identify and implement process improvements to optimize administrative efficiency.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Proven ability in minute-taking and tracking follow-up actions.
• Expertise in document and records management.
• Competent in database management and data entry tasks.
• Experience in financial administration including handling purchase orders, invoices, and expense claims.
• Strong stakeholder relationship management aptitude.
• Skilled in project coordination and report preparation.
• Capacity to improve administrative processes.
• Effective at scheduling and organizing logistics.
• Versatile in managing a broad range of routine office administrative duties.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum of 5 years in executive assistant or senior administrative roles.
• Outstanding organizational skills suited to a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Experienced in managing multiple senior leader calendars.
• Adept at leading process reviews and innovative improvements in administrative workflows.
• Ability to juggle multiple priorities while maintaining seamless operations.
• Leadership skills demonstrating capability to motivate and manage a small team.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Teams.
• Committed to continuous improvement, inclusivity, and cultural awareness.
• Strong interpersonal skills that foster a trustworthy and values-driven work culture.

About the Team

The Future Learning and Development office collaborates with academic staff to enhance teaching and learning through educational technology. They support the development of flexible, hybrid, and online courses to empower learners and promote future-oriented education.

University Values and Benefits

The University embodies the values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, and tiakitanga to guide its decision-making and interactions, fostering a supportive environment for staff and students. Benefits include flexible work arrangements, study opportunities, generous superannuation, and leave provisions.

Additional Information

• Applications must be submitted online with a cover letter and resume.
• Aotearoa New Zealand or Australian citizenship/permanent residency is required.
• Applications will be reviewed continuously, and early interviews may be conducted.
• Contact for application process queries: WorkatUC@canterbury.ac.nz.
• Closing date: 2 August 2026 (midnight NZ time).