- Lead our award-winning division and drive lasting impact on AUT’s built environment
- Strategic and tactical management – translate objectives into practical action
- Permanent, full-time position based in Auckland’s CBD
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is bold and unapologetically different, centred on students and grounded in Knowledge that Works driven by talented, progressive people. We are New Zealand’s newest university, ranked 5-stars by QS Universities 2025 and a place of opportunity where more than 26,000 students with talent and potential succeed, supported by a community of more than 4,000 staff based primarily across three Auckland campuses. Built on collaboration, shared purpose and the values of Pono (fact, truth, reality, integrity), Tika (acting accordingly, doing what is needed, ethical expression), and Aroha (empathy, care, compassion). AUT offers an innovative, forward-thinking environment where committed people work together to improve outcomes for students, communities, and the world.
We recognise the importance of Te Tiriti, Māori and Pacific knowledge, leadership, and contribution across our university and is committed to creating environments where these communities can thrive. We embrace diversity in all its forms and are proud to welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.
AUT has recently approved a bold 10-year Academic and Capital Plan focused on transforming academic activities to support its role as Aotearoa’s University of Technology. This investment will upgrade campus infrastructure and promote innovative, flexible teaching across all disciplines.
AUT’s long-term strategy, Te Kete aims to future-proof the university by integrating advanced technology into learning environments and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. The Academic & Capital Plan includes expanding research facilities, modernising digital resources, and enhancing student support services to create an engaging campus experience prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity. The University also seeks to strengthen industry partnerships, aligning academic programs with evolving workforce needs and positioning graduates for success in a rapidly changing world.
At the heart of this transformation is AUT’s Estates Group—our award-winning, in-house property and services team. Our mission: create inspiring, future-ready spaces that leave a lasting impact.
With up to 200 AUT staff and 100 contractors on any given day delivering more than 60 major service lines, we manage the planning, development, operation, and maintenance of AUT’s 235,000+sqm property portfolio and assets valued at $1.9 billion. From property services to commercial and hospitality operations, security and emergency management we provide end-to-end solutions that underpin AUT’s mission to enrich lives through technology, learning, and discovery.
The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi
This is a dynamic, forward-thinking environment where your expertise will help define the next decade of transformation. We’re looking for an influential, innovative leader to drive AUT’s Estates Group in delivering safe, compliant, and resilient infrastructure that enables the University to achieve its strategic objectives. At the heart of this role is AUT’s Academic & Capital Plan – a rare opportunity to join at a pivotal moment, shape strategy and lead change from the ground up.
With a remit spanning property, facilities, security, emergency management, commercial, and hospitality services, this role offers exceptional scope, influence and career progression. Supported by an experienced Estates leadership team, you’ll bring strategic vision, collaborative leadership and a positive, solutions-focused approach along with a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
Key focus areas include:
- Lead master planning, capital development and maintenance across AUT’s multi-campus portfolio.
- Collaborate with senior academic leaders to define future requirements that will guide design, construction and operations of major projects.
- Shape the future of learning by creating spaces that support hands-on, applied learning and evolving technology enriched methods.
- Ensure compliance, operational excellence and future-ready solutions in all projects.
- Champion innovation and deliver environments that inspire world-class learning and discovery.
For full details on the role, including key accountabilities and responsibilities, please refer to the comprehensive position description in the Candidate Handbook. The handbook also provides insights into the Estates Group, AUT and our ambitious plans for the future.
About you | Ko wai koe
We’re seeking a strategic, people-focused leader with the ability to navigate complexity and deliver impact. Key criteria being sought include:
- Proven senior leadership experience in large, complex organisations, with responsibility for sizeable teams and fostering a high-performance, people-focused culture.
- Broad expertise across Facilities, Security, Emergency Management, Project, Property and Construction Management, including operations, development programmes and capital works.
- Successful track record in managing complex property, project, and service portfolios.
- Strong understanding of property and commercial legal and financial frameworks, with demonstrated financial acumen.
- Emergency management and business continuity experience.
- Skilled in strategic planning, forecasting, and translating objectives into practical action.
- Ability to manage diverse senior stakeholder expectations in a collegial environment.
- Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and uplifting cultural capability.
- Ability to analyse complex data to inform evidence-based decisions and strategic planning.
- Relevant tertiary qualification in property or services management (or related discipline).
How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono
To learn more about the role, view the Candidate Brochure at: AUT – Group Director, Estates
Along with your CV – please ensure to submit a cover letter which a) explains why this role (and AUT) is of interest, and b) addresses how you feel you meet some, or all, of the key criteria listed above. Please send your application to michael.hewlett@mrgglobal.com
Further Information:
- Start Date: The successful candidate would join AUT in 2026 (to be agreed).
- Term: The successful candidate will secure a permanent appointment. A competitive remuneration package will be agreed, commensurate with skills and experience.
- Contact for enquiries: To arrange a briefing discussion please contact our advisors Michael Hewlett (07972 579 938 / michael.hewlett@mrgglobal.com) or Ben Duffill (07976 125 010 / ben.duffill@mrgglobal.com) at MRG.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 1 February 2026 at 11.55pm
At AUT we strive to be a place where people love to work and learn. We are committed to te Tiriti, excellence and inclusivity and aspire to be the University of choice for Māori and Pacific communities. We welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.
