Deputy Chief Executive -
Operations
Auckland International Campus
CANDIDATE INFORMATION PACK
Scroll down to access everything you need.
Executive Summary
THE OPPORTUNITY
Auckland International Campus (AIC) is entering its next phase of growth and operational maturity as it strengthens its position as a leading provider of high-quality international education in New Zealand.
The Deputy Chief Executive – Operations plays a critical role in ensuring the campus operates as a high-performing, commercially sustainable and learner-centred education business. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, this role combines strategic leadership with hands-on operational oversight, ensuring campus operations and student services operate efficiently, productively and at scale while supporting sustainable growth and strong learner outcomes.
This is a role for a leader who is equally comfortable shaping strategic direction and rolling up their sleeves to ensure operational delivery. The successful candidate will bring strong commercial and financial acumen, with the ability to improve productivity, strengthen operational processes. This includes improving operational productivity, strengthening service delivery models and ensuring the campus operates with strong financial discipline and commercial awareness.
Working closely with the Chief Executive and leadership team, the DCE will help drive a 5–10 year vision for the campus, ensuring AIC continues to deliver high-quality education while evolving its business model to remain competitive in the international education market.
The role offers an opportunity for an ambitious executive who sees this position as a significant step toward future Chief Executive leadership, and who is motivated to build capability, deliver measurable results, and contribute to the continued success of AIC.
THE ROLE
The Deputy Chief Executive – Operations is responsible for overseeing the campus’s operational functions, ensuring high levels of learner satisfaction, strong learner outcomes, efficient campus operations, and sound financial performance.
The role has oversight across operational functions, student services and campus performance, ensuring systems, processes and people operate effectively to support learner success and organisational sustainability.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading operational performance across the campus to ensure efficient, productive and high-quality delivery of programmes and services.
- Driving commercial performance and financial sustainability, including revenue generation, budget management and operational efficiencies.
- Identifying opportunities for process improvement, productivity gains and operational innovation.
- Working closely with the Chief Executive to deliver the strategic plan and long-term organisational vision.
- Providing strong reporting and insights to the Chief Executive and Board, supporting effective governance and strategic decision making.
- Ensuring compliance with NZQA, pastoral care obligations and regulatory requirements for international education providers.
- Leading and developing a diverse team across operational and student support functions.
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with regulators, education partners and industry stakeholders.
This is a highly visible and influential leadership role, requiring a balance of strategic thinking, operational discipline and people leadership.
THE CANDIDATE
The successful candidate will be a highly capable operational leader with a strong education sector foundation and commercial mindset.
They will bring experience operating in complex, performance-driven environments and be comfortable leading complex operational environments, improving productivity and service delivery while maintaining strong educational outcomes.
Importantly, this role requires someone who is hands-on, curious and operationally engaged, a leader who enjoys understanding how organisations work in practice and who works alongside teams to solve problems and deliver results.
The ideal candidate will bring:
- Experience of leading operational functions at a C-Suite level ideally within tertiary education or comparable service-based organisations such as campus operations, programme delivery, student services, marketing or business operations.
- Experience operating in commercial or private sector environments, bringing a business-oriented perspective to education delivery.
- Demonstrated ability to drive productivity, operational efficiency and process improvement.
- Strong financial literacy, including experience managing budgets and improving commercial performance.
- A strategic mindset, able to balance immediate operational priorities with long-term organisational development.
- The confidence and capability to engage effectively with boards and senior stakeholders.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to lead through influence, clarity and collaboration.
This role will suit someone who is mid-career and ambitious, looking to broaden their leadership capability and progress toward a future Chief Executive role.
For a confidential discussion, please get in touch with:
David Price
HG National Manager, New Zealand
M. +64 (0)210 2392211
E. dprice@hardygroupintl.com
Auckland International Campus
Our vision is to develop New Zealand's most employable graduates.
Recognising the demand for education tailored specifically to international students, Future Skills and Otago Polytechnic partnered in 2012 and opened the Auckland International Campus (AIC).
Future Skills is a leading education and training provider based in Auckland which helps school leavers and other people further their education and get ready for the next step. It is a signatory to the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students published by the New Zealand Ministry of Education.
Established in 1966 in Dunedin, Otago Polytechnic is a proud leader in hands-on, career-focused education. It has over 150 programmes and some of the best student achievement and satisfaction results in New Zealand, not to mention resounding endorsements from employers. There are three campuses throughout New Zealand; Dunedin, Central Otago and Auckland.
Both Future Skills and Otago Polytechnic are NZQA Category 1 Education Providers. This means NZQA is highly confident in our performance. You can find the latest Future Skills Quality Assurance Report here and the latest Otago Polytechnic report here.
We wanted to create a learning environment to give students who move to New Zealand to study the best experience and chance to succeed in their chosen career. We deliver high-quality English language and academic programmes and teach skills that lead to careers both here in New Zealand, and globally.
OUR MISSION
Build capability for a global workforce.
OUR VALUES
At AIC, we empower our people to grow personally and professionally, guided by integrity, connection, and a commitment to excellence.
Empower — Whakamana
Growth — Whakatupu
Integrity — Whakapono
Connection — Whakahono
Excellence — Whakatairangi
OUR PROGRAMS
AIC is an exciting, diverse and high-energy place to study. Our excellent range of programmes enhance employability. We achieve this by focusing on the highest academic standards and building close relationships with businesses to ensure we teach you what your future employers are looking for. When you graduate from AIC, you are ready to work and succeed in your chosen career.
Here at AIC, you’ll gain a top-quality qualification, have an amazing and enriching time, and put yourself in a great position for a career you love!
https://auckland.op.ac.nz/our-programmes
Role Specification
Auckland International Campus (AIC) provides quality education for international students of both Otago Polytechnic and Future Skills. The Deputy Chief Executive (DCE) – Operations is responsible for the operational leadership and performance of AIC reporting to the Chief Executive – International Division, the role ensures the efficient, commercially sustainable and high-quality delivery of academic programmes and campus services.
The DCE provides leadership across our operational functions, customer experience and overall performance, ensuring that systems, processes and resources operate effectively to support learner success and business growth. The role requires a leader who combines strategic capability with hands-on operational oversight, with responsibility for improving productivity, strengthening processes, supporting revenue growth and ensuring the campus operates as a high-performing international education business.
Success in this role will see AIC recognised as:
- A high-performing campus with strong learner outcomes
- A financially sustainable and commercially disciplined operation
- A provider of high-quality international education aligned to employer and industry needs
- A campus that delivers operational efficiency, innovation and strong stakeholder partnerships
1. Strategic Planning
- In consultation with the Chief Executive – International and Executive Leadership Team (ELT) formulate / execute the overall strategic goals and objectives.
- Work with the different departments, to break down strategic priorities into measurable objectives and priority actions for departments.
- Ensure effective planning and allocation of resources to support strategic priorities.
- Identify operational and strategic risks and integrate mitigation measures into planning processes to ensure sustainability.
- Integrate stakeholder inputs (government agencies, partners, private sector) into planning and decision-making processes where required.
2. Commercial and Operational Performance
- Operational systems and processes support efficient, scalable and high-quality programme delivery.
- Campus operations demonstrate strong productivity, cost discipline and resource utilisation.
- Opportunities to improve operational efficiency, service delivery and process effectiveness are identified and implemented.
- Business plans support sustainable revenue growth and commercial performance.
- Financial performance is actively monitored and managed against budgets and forecasts.
- Opportunities to strengthen programme viability, market positioning and student recruitment are identified and pursued.
- Operational reporting provides clear insights to the Chief Executive and Board on performance, risks and opportunities.
3. Educational Leadership
AIC is positioned as a provider known for its educational innovation and excellence in learning and teaching.
- High quality, leading edge, accessible and relevant programmes are offered, that meet international needs.
- On-going advances in educational technologies in educational delivery activities are embraced.
- AIC supports applied research and industry engagement where relevant to programme delivery.
- Strong levels of student success are achieved in AIC’s educational programmes and graduate outcomes.
- Innovation and the pursuit of educational, service, and managerial excellence is championed at all levels.
- AIC values are embedded in all programmes and international operations.
4. Learner Success and Educational Performance
- Learner engagement is regularly monitored, and retention strategies implemented.
- Key educational performance, including course completions, are regularly monitored and corrective measures are implemented to ensure set educational performance targets are met.
- Learner success strategies and projects are managed, planned, and executed effectively and efficiently, on time and on budget.
- Learner success data is regularly
5. Operational Leadership
- A positive learner-centric environment supportive of a quality educational experience, with high staff and student engagement is delivered.
- All operations are efficiently planned and resourced to meet strategic objectives.
- Operational systems and campus services operate efficiently to support academic delivery and student experience.
- Resources are allocated in a way that maximises productivity and operational performance.
- Opportunities to improve service delivery models, systems and processes are actively identified.
- Campus operations are managed with a focus on efficiency, financial discipline and continuous improvement.
6. Change Leadership
AIC is at the forefront of the international education sector.
- Priorities for change are identified and strategies initiated, to meet AIC’s changing environment.
- AIC is agile, future-focused, and able to thrive in a changing environment.
- A climate is fostered that encourages innovative approaches to implementing AIC’s strategy.
- Leadership is developed at all levels within AIC, and succession plans are in place.
7. Organisational Resilience
- Excellence is championed in all aspects of AIC’s operations.
- AIC demonstrates strong commercial performance and financial sustainability.
- Operational systems support efficient, scalable campus delivery.
- Productivity and cost effectiveness are actively monitored and improved.
- Performance reporting provides clear insights for executive and Board decision making.
- All growth and other targets identified in AIC’s business plans are achieved.
- Regular reporting is provided to the CEO on progress against plans, risks, issues and achievements.
- High quality reports and proposals for development are produced and submitted to the ELT.
- Robust risk management and mitigation processes are put in place and are effectively deployed.
- Best practice management and fiscal management systems and processes are deployed.
- AIC’s resources are appropriately allocated to deliver the agreed strategies on a sustainable basis.
8. Te Tiriti o Waitangi
- AIC upholds the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
- AIC upholds the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
- AIC’s commitment to upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi is championed.
- Positive engagement with hapū and iwi is supported, to consult and to consider all perspectives, and have meaningful representation from Māori.
- Action plans are developed and implemented which will improve Māori learner outcomes.
- Decisions that affect Māori are tika (right) and follow kawa (protocol).
- Our staff are developed to be biculturally competent.
9. General
a) Live AIC values;
b) Achieve targets as agreed in your performance goals and objectives;
c) Be an active researcher and learner and challenge the status quo;
d) Keep yourself well informed on the organisation’s vision and strategic goals;
e) Maintain and exceed AIC’s quality standards;
f) Be a responsible and effective team player;
g) Participate in AIC’s events, including meetings, functions, campus processes, project teams.
h) Ensure all practicable steps are taken to ensure own safety and the safety of others in the workplace, on or off campus, and always comply with all Health and Safety legislation, guidelines and policies.
i) Support AIC’s obligations under the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021.
These role accountabilities should not be considered a complete and exhaustive list and may evolve with business developments, and there may be other duties, relevant to your area of work, that will be required to be performed from time to time.
1. Senior Operational Leadership in Education or Comparable Service Environments
Demonstrated experience leading operational functions at a senior executive level, ideally within tertiary education or comparable service-based organisations. This may include responsibility for areas such as campus operations, programme delivery, student services, marketing, customer experience or broader business operations.
The successful candidate will bring the ability to lead complex operational environments, ensuring systems, processes and teams operate effectively to support organisational performance, strong learner outcomes and sustainable business growth.
2. Strategic and Operational Leadership
Proven ability to operate effectively at both strategic and operational levels, translating organisational strategy into clear operational plans and measurable outcomes. Demonstrated experience leading the execution of strategic priorities, ensuring alignment between organisational goals, operational delivery and performance management.
This includes the ability to move seamlessly between long-term strategic thinking and hands-on operational oversight to ensure initiatives are delivered effectively and organisational objectives are achieved.
3. Commercial Acumen and Financial Management
Strong commercial and financial capability, including experience managing budgets, improving financial performance and ensuring operational sustainability. Ability to balance educational outcomes with commercial performance in a competitive international education environment.
4. Operational Performance and Process Improvement
Demonstrated experience improving organisational productivity, operational efficiency and service delivery. Proven ability to review systems and processes, identify improvement opportunities and implement practical solutions that enhance performance.
5. Revenue Growth and Business Development
EExperience contributing to organisational growth through new initiatives, programme development, partnerships or market opportunities. Ability to identify opportunities that strengthen programme viability, student recruitment and sustainable revenue generation.
6. Stakeholder Engagement and Governance
Proven experience working with senior stakeholders including executive teams, boards, regulators or external partners. Ability to provide clear reporting, insights and advice to support governance and strategic decision-making. Experience preparing or contributing to reporting for executive leadership teams or Boards.
7. People Leadership and Organisational Culture
Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams, build capability and foster a positive, high-performing culture. A collaborative leadership style with a willingness to work alongside teams, remain close to operational delivery and support people to succeed.
Please discuss with HardyGroup Consultant
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer - International Division
Direct Reports: Up to 8 Positions
Internal:
Future Skills
- Executive and Senior Management team
Auckland International Campus (AIC)
- Senior Managers
Otago Polytechnic (OP)
- Executive and Senior Management team
- Heads of Relevant Schools
External:
Relevant Government Departments and Agencies, especially:
- Tertiary Education Commission
- NZ Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
- Immigration NZ
- Education NZ
Auckland employers, businesses, community, and ethnic groups
Auckland City Council and local authorities
Other educational institutions in NZ and offshore.
Service Location: Auckland, New Zealand
The closing date for applications is Tuesday, 31 March 2026
The reference number to include in your application is H25_5346
Note: Please use the online platform to submit your application. It will not be accepted via email.
If you require assistance in submitting your application online, please get in touch with Executive Search Coordinator, Aldie Zuñiga: M: +61 (0)494 101 082 / E: azuniga@hardygroupintl.com
Your application must include:
- 1.Cover letter addressed to the Principal Consultant;
- 2.A written response addressing the key selection criteria; and
- 3.An up to date copy of your Curriculum Vitae.
It Is standard practice for HardyGroup to acknowledge receipt of your application no later than the next business day. We request that if you do not receive the acknowledgement, you contact the search coordinator listed above as soon as possible after the 24-hour business period and arrange to resend your application if necessary.
For a confidential discussion, please contact:
David Price
HG National Manager, New Zealand
M. +64 (0)210 2392211
E. dprice@hardygroupintl.com
LIVING AND WORKING IN AUCKLAND
A city built by volcanoes, Auckland came to life when some 53 of the rumbling mountains were created between 60,000 and 140,000 years ago, and the vibe of New Zealand’s largest settlement is every bit as exciting as you might expect from a town born this way.
Auckland has practically everything to offer the skilled professional, with every street, nook and cranny offering something new to discover. With more boats per head than anywhere else on Earth, Auckland is known as the City of Sails – and you’ll be sure to sail through the city’s finest delights when you arrive.
Living in Auckland
In Auckland, there’s something new to discover on every street – and on the water. That’s right – there are more boats per head here than anywhere else on the planet. Not for no reason is Auckland nicknamed the ‘City Of Sails’!
Climate
Aucklanders enjoy a warm temperate climate. Summers are usually warm and humid while winters are mild and wet. The city boasts an average of 2,060 sunshine hours per annum – plenty to go around!
Diversity
Did you know that when it comes to diversity, Auckland is fourth in the world? That’s right – more than 200 ethnic communities live and work in Auckland, and of those, approximately one-third were born overseas. That means that it’s easy to make friends here, and mixing with people from all creeds and cultures is an absolute cinch.
Working in Auckland
As you might expect, as NZ’s largest city, Auckland boasts the biggest economy in the country. It’s here where many of New Zealand’s most innovative companies set up shop, including multinationals and national brands. As a settlement area, Auckland is by far and away the most populous in New Zealand – around one-third of the country live and work in the area, or nearby.
It’s a city in which there is huge growth in a great many sectors, the employment options are greater here than pretty much anywhere else in New Zealand. Construction, technology and IT are all booming right now, alongside media, communications and everything in between.
ABOUT US
HardyGroup’s (HG) mission is simple
Find and Grow Great Leaders - and we have been doing exactly that for more than 30 years in public and private health, primary, community and aged care as well as the broader public service.
Our synergistic business model of Executive Search and Recruitment integrated with Executive Leadership and Learning is our unique point of difference.
It ensures our clients can count on us for the lifecycle of their organisations leadership journey and why we are regarded as the leading trans-Tasman partner agency by clients.
When engaging HG you can be confident in a deeply personalised experience and service as nothing matters more to us than relationships and results.