Portfolio Lead – Horizon Europe Projects

About the role

We are seeking a Portfolio Lead to join the research project team at the University of Auckland. Working closely with the Principal Investigator, you will ensure post‑award compliance for Horizon Europe‑funded projects and coordinate with consortium partners to meet contractual obligations.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee administrative, financial and legal management of Horizon Europe projects.
• Ensure the University complies with the Grant Agreement and Consortium Agreement.
• Monitor budgets, track expenditures, manage fund transfers and prepare internal financial reports.
• Coordinate preparation, consolidation and submission of financial reports with the OneFinance Team to meet European Commission deadlines.
• Guarantee that all expense justification documents are correctly defined, archived and audit‑ready.
• Develop and implement internal tools such as procedures, guidelines, templates and collaborative platforms.
• Deliver training sessions and information workshops for research support staff.
• Provide ongoing peer support across the University’s research services.

Required profile

• At least 5 years of experience in administrative and financial management of European or international projects.
• Strong knowledge of European Commission management rules for the Horizon Europe framework.
• Familiarity with research management systems and processes in a university or similar research‑intensive organisation.
• Advanced Excel skills, including data analysis and pivot tables.
• Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail and ability to work in multicultural, multidisciplinary teams.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel
• Data analysis
• Pivot tables

What we offer

• Full‑time position (37.5 hours per week) on a 12‑month fixed‑term contract.
• Salary Band G: NZ$87,000 – NZ$107,500 per annum, dependent on experience.
• Opportunity to shape internal tools and training for Horizon Europe projects.
• Collaborative environment within a leading New Zealand university.