Research Grants & Contracts Manager

Company Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading University. With over 6000 academic and professional staff supporting over 46,000 students, we are one of NZ’s largest employers.  We have eight academic faculties and 11 service divisions creating a diverse, dynamic and complex organisational culture that demands excellence.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking a skilled and collaborative Research Grants & Contracts Manager to join our team at Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland. In this role, you will lead the negotiation and execution of complex contracts, subcontracts, and variations for research and consulting projects with external clients, funders, and partners. You’ll work closely with researchers, Faculty and Institute Research Services Teams (FIRST), UniServices teams, and commercial stakeholders to deliver optimal contracting outcomes within the University’s delegations framework and risk appetite.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Managing the drafting, negotiation and execution processes for a portfolio of complex agreements.
• Providing timely updates to stakeholders on contract progress and status.
• Supporting the team during peak periods by assisting with standard agreements and variations and providing contractual advice and supporting training.
• Ensuring accurate contract tracking and reporting through research management systems.
• Leading and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives across the Research Grants & Contracts team.

This is a full-time, 37.5 hours per week Permanent role. The salary range for this role is $83,300 – 102,900 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.

For more detailed information on the role accountabilities and requirements, please review the Position Description

He kōrero mōu | About you

You’re a detail-oriented professional with strong contract negotiation skills and financial acumen. Known for your clear communication and collaborative approach, you manage relationships and workloads effectively, adapt well to change, and bring a positive, solutions-focused mindset to everything you do.

Experience working in a tertiary or research setting with negotiation and management of complex contracts is preferred. A Bachelor of Laws degree with experience in contracting would be an advantage.

What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

We offer you more than just a job. We offer you the opportunity to be part of a dynamic, world-class educational institution.

We proudly provide an environment that will enable you and rewards hard work. We provide benefits and support throughout your career to help you develop and grow.

We are committed to providing a supportive working environment through:

• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks of annual leave. With the option to buy and sell additional leave.
• Flexible employment practices. Including partial working from home and adaptive working hours.
• A generous and inclusive parental leave policy.

In addition, we offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, on-site childcare options, leisure and recreation facilities, and a number of other discounted products and services. 

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Hear more about making Worlds of Difference in your career at the University, our partnership with Māori, our Te Ao Māori principles, our impact, our staff and life in Auckland on our careers website

Additional Information

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply 

Applications should be submitted on our website, before Sunday 12th October to be considered. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.  

For more information, please reach out to Louise Dickinson louise.dickinson@auckland.ac.nz

Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email. 

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz