Vice-Chancellor

University of Canterbury - Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha

The University of Canterbury (UC) is a comprehensive, research-intensive university located in Ōtautahi Christchurch, playing a pivotal role in the city’s regeneration and the Canterbury region’s growth. In the wake of the Canterbury earthquakes, UC undertook one of the most significant transformations in its history, rebuilding and reimagining itself as a financially stable, future-focused institution. Today, UC boasts strong domestic enrolments, a vibrant one-campus student experience, and a deep commitment to research, innovation, and societal impact.

UC is now seeking an exceptional leader to serve as its next Vice-Chancellor. This appointment represents a unique opportunity to shape UC’s direction beyond 2030, driving research intensity, global positioning, innovation, and cultural inclusivity. The Vice-Chancellor will lead a University that deeply values manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, and tiakitanga, and is deeply committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and authentic partnership with Ngāi Tahu.

The next Vice-Chancellor will build upon UC’s strengths and focus on elevating its research performance and global reputation, while preserving and enhancing its strong student experience and embracing innovation. They will ensure financial sustainability by diversifying income streams and embedding Te Tiriti principles across all aspects of university life. Building trust and cohesion within UC’s academic community will be essential, as will strengthening partnerships with iwi, government, industry, alumni, and donors.

The successful candidate will be a visionary, collegial, and courageous leader with a deep understanding of scholarly excellence and the evolving role of tertiary education. They will bring proven strategic and operational leadership experience, strong financial acumen, and the ability to lead a large and complex institution through sector-wide change. Experience engaging with Māori and Pacific communities, or Indigenous peoples globally, and a demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion are essential.

If you wish to discuss this role further in confidence, please contact Dr Gordon Lobay or James Boyd via UCanterburyVC@perrettlaver.com

An executive search process is conducted in parallel with the public advertisement of the role. Longlisted candidates will be invited to interview  in March and the Selection Panel will subsequently meet to decide upon a final shortlist for the post in mid April, following which, formal interviews with the University of Canterbury will take place in late April and mid-late May. If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.

For more information, including a full position description and selection criteria, and to submit your application, please visit our website: (via the ‘Apply’ button above) quoting reference 8081.

The deadline for applications is 9am NZT on Monday 2^nd March.