Government Relations Lead

About Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

AUT is a bold and distinctive university focused on student success and practical knowledge, ranked 5 stars by QS Universities 2025. With over 27,000 students and 4,000 staff across three Auckland campuses, AUT emphasizes collaboration, shared values of integrity, fairness, and care, alongside commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Māori and Pacific knowledge, and inclusivity across diverse communities.

Role Overview

The Government Relations Lead is a pivotal position reporting to the Assistant Vice-Chancellor Engagement within the Vice-Chancellor’s Office. This permanent role centers on guiding AUT's interactions with local and national government to advance institutional priorities through strong relationships and strategic advocacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and execute government relations and stakeholder engagement initiatives for AUT.
• Develop robust connections with government officials, agencies, elected members of the New Zealand Government and Auckland Council.
• Coordinate and support senior leadership engagements with government entities, including preparation of briefings and follow-ups.
• Monitor policy, legislative, regulatory, and political changes locally and nationally that impact AUT.
• Provide timely updates to senior management on relevant government developments.
• Identify opportunities for advocacy and government engagement, including drafting submissions with Strategy and Planning.
• Represent AUT at government meetings and external stakeholder events as appropriate.
• Utilize networks and resources to gather insights and anticipate risks and opportunities.
• Leverage digital tools responsibly in work processes and to foster innovation.

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will be politically knowledgeable and adept at relationship management, with a deep understanding of national and local government operations. They must demonstrate sound judgment, diplomacy, and the capacity to produce high-quality analysis and communication materials. Commitment to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, equity, and inclusion is essential.

Qualifications and Experience

• Relevant tertiary qualification.
• Minimum eight years’ experience in government relations or a similar field.
• Comprehensive knowledge of New Zealand’s policy, parliamentary, and local government systems.
• Proficient in producing reports, presentations, briefings, and submissions.
• Experience collaborating with industry groups and understanding their advocacy roles.
• Strong skills in relationship building, discretion, professionalism, and communication.
• Analytical capability to assess complex information and extract key insights.
• A proactive, self-driven approach with strong digital literacy.
• Demonstrable understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including commitment to te reo Māori and tikanga.
• Collaborative and innovative mindset toward challenges and opportunities.

Preferred Experience

Background within the New Zealand tertiary education sector is desirable but not mandatory.

Benefits and Culture

• Flexible work options within a supportive, values-driven environment.
• Recognition systems reflecting contributions and values alignment.
• Autonomy and resources to make meaningful impacts daily.
• Māori and Pacific development programs to strengthen purpose.
• Cultural capability training for all employees.
• Opportunities for professional growth and funded academic studies.
• Complimentary gym membership.

Application Process

Applicants must submit a CV along with a cover letter explaining their interest in this role and AUT, addressing how they meet the key criteria. All applications are required through the official online process. The start date is as soon as possible.

Additional Information

• Contact: Caroline Cranston, AUT Recruitment Consultant.
• Position reference: 96099.
• Working hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week.
• Application deadline: 23 July 2026 at 5pm.

We are an inclusive employer committed to equity and diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities.