Research Grants and Contracts Manager

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland  

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university. We employ more than 9000 academic and professional staff to support over 50,000 students, making us one of NZ’s largest employers.

Our mission and values place a strong emphasis on both our student body and our scholarly community, and we work with both community and enterprise to advance the well-being of the peoples of Auckland and New Zealand, with a clear commitment to pursuing sustainability.

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:

• Manage the drafting, negotiation and execution of complex agreements.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships across the University and external partners.
• Provide clear and timely communication on contract progress and outcomes.
• Review contracts with a high level of attention to detail and risk awareness.
• Support colleagues with contractual advice, training and peak-period workloads.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and accurate contract management reporting.

This position is currently based at the University of Auckland's Newmarket Campus. We offer flexible hybrid working arrangements that support a balance of working from home and on campus, subject to business requirements.

This is a full time, permanent employment agreement, working 37.5 hours per week.  This is a salary band G, offering a salary range of $87,000 - $103,000 per annum. depending on skills and experience.

For more detailed information about the role and requirements, please refer to the position description.

About the team | Mō tō mātou rōpū

The Research Grants & Contracts team manages a high volume of commercial and research agreements that help enable world-class research and innovation across the University. It's a collaborative, high-performing team that takes pride in delivering quality outcomes and supporting researchers to make a meaningful impact.

With a strong "one team" culture, team members work closely together, share knowledge freely and support each other through changing priorities and busy periods. The team enjoys the satisfaction of knowing that the work they do every day contributes to research, partnerships and initiatives that create positive outcomes for the University and wider society.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You are a detail-oriented contracts professional with a strong ability to draft, review and manage complex agreements. You combine excellent written communication skills with sound commercial judgement and enjoy working collaboratively with a diverse range of stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes.

You are organised, adaptable and solutions-focused, with the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Demonstrated experience drafting, reviewing and managing complex contracts and agreements.
• Strong written communication skills and the ability to interpret and clearly explain contractual terms.
• Excellent attention to detail, with the ability to identify risks and ensure contractual accuracy.
• Proven stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build collaborative and trusted relationships with both internal and external partners.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities in a busy environment.
• A collaborative and customer-focused approach, with a willingness to support colleagues and contribute to a positive team culture.
• Experience working in a tertiary education, research, legal, commercial or professional services environment would be advantageous.
• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) qualification or equivalent experience in contract management and drafting would be highly regarded.

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 cultivate an environment that supports your growth and rewards excellence with a range of staff benefits, including:

• Competitive salary and five weeks of annual leave.
• Superannuation/KiwiSaver matching up to 6.75%
• Leading and inclusive parental leave options.
• Ongoing professional development opportunities and access to a range of discounted on campus services and amenitites.
• Hear more about our partnership with Māori, our Te Ao Māori principles, our impact, our staff, and life in Auckland on our career’s website.

For further information please visit our staff benefits page.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications should be submitted online, before the closing date of Friday 18th of September 2026 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.

For any further questions related to the role, please contact Aimee Carr on [email protected]

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

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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