Tumuaki - Head of School

• Are you looking for an influential leadership role in a world class, multidisciplinary school that spans across social, environmental and earth sciences?
• Can you strategically position teaching, research and engagement to connect closely with the key issues facing society, including climate change, natural hazards, environmental justice, resilience, and social cohesion?
• Are you interested in a fixed-term Head of School appointment for three years, coupled to a permanent substantive academic position in the School?

About the role

Te Herenga Waka -Victoria University of Wellington is currently seeking a Tumuaki - Head of School for Te Kura Tātai Aro Whenua - School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences. The successful applicant will be appointed to a permanent academic position and will return to that position once completing the three-year fixed-term Head of School role.

We are looking to recruit an academic leader with relevant disciplinary knowledge and the scope of vision to:

• develop the strategic direction of the School
• foster a diverse, connected and interdisciplinary research and teaching environment
• champion the School with internal and external stakeholders.

The Head of School will be an effective and supportive member of the Faculty of Science and Engineering leadership team and report to the Dean.

About you

The successful applicant will have:

• a demonstrated record of commitment to, and performance in, quality tertiary teaching, research, engagement and academic leadership
• the ability to support and manage staff across a broad range of disciplines
• a sound knowledge of a university environment and the education sector
• proven ability to engage in effective strategic planning and initiative development
• proven advocacy and promotion skills
• proven commitment to working collaboratively with colleagues and team building
• a strong commitment to equity and diversity in teaching, research and engagement
• evidence of ability to assist the University to meet its obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi
• a PhD in a relevant discipline.

Why you should join our team

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a large and energetic school that boasts international research and teaching expertise within a world-leading university. The School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences prides itself on research and teaching excellence, with high QS rankings in Development Studies (top 100), Geography (top 150), Earth and Marine Sciences (top 200). Within New Zealand, the School is top-ranking for research intensity in its disciplines, and it has an exceptional record of attracting external research funding. Taught programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels address contemporary problems and solutions at local and global scales and facilitate student engagement with diverse environments and communities.

Role description - Click here to see further information, including salary details.

Close date for vacancy: Monday, 28 July 2025

Contact details for vacancy

If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Leandro Gomez (leandro.gomez@vuw.ac.nz).

About Our University

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.

Click the ‘Apply’ button above and follow the process to enter your contact details, answer pre-screening questions, then attach a resume, cover letter, and any supporting documents.

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