Executive Director Māori – Pouārahi

About the role

The Executive Director Māori – Pouārahi provides senior, organisation‑wide leadership to embed Te Tiriti o Waitangi as a foundational principle across UCOL’s strategy, policy, systems and practice. Based in Palmerston North with regular travel to UCOL’s other campuses, the role shapes the institution’s Māori engagement and outcomes from the ground up.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement foundational frameworks, policies and institutional standards that define UCOL as a Tiriti‑led organisation.
• Provide strategic advice, regular reporting and assurance on Māori learner outcomes and Te Tiriti strategy performance to the Chief Executive, Executive Leadership Team and governance bodies.
• Build and nurture trusted relationships with iwi, kaimahi and community stakeholders, attending hui, events and representing UCOL publicly.
• Advise on tikanga Māori and cultural practice across the institution, influencing decision‑making and ensuring alignment with Te Tiriti commitments.
• Lead the design and delivery of capability‑building initiatives to embed Māori perspectives throughout the organisation.

Required profile

• Proven senior executive leadership experience driving organisational strategy, performance and transformation.
• Deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application in governance, strategy and organisational systems.
• Strong knowledge of tertiary education, vocational delivery or workforce development, including policy and funding contexts.
• Postgraduate qualification in education, Māori development leadership or a related field, or equivalent professional expertise.

Required skills