Understanding the Role: Deputy Director, International

The Manutaki Tuarua – Deputy Director, International role at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington offers an exciting opportunity to shape the University’s global strategy and international education initiatives. This leadership position is pivotal in driving international engagement, fostering an inclusive environment for international students, and ensuring the University achieves ambitious goals such as increased student enrolments, enhanced global mobility opportunities, and expanded transnational education offerings.

As the Deputy Director, you will play a critical role in overseeing internationalisation efforts, working closely with diverse teams, and aligning Wellington University International (WUI)’s operations with the University’s overall strategic plan. Whether you’re motivating teams, setting strategic goals informed by market intelligence, or representing the University internationally, you’ll be central to building the institution’s reputation for world-class international education.

Additionally, the role demands innovation, leadership, and expertise in navigating global education systems to continuously improve service efficiency and the student lifecycle experience. It also requires championing compliance with the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021.

Advice for Applicants: Bringing an International Perspective

1. Demonstrate Expertise in International Education:
Strong familiarity with global education trends, systems, and internationalisation best practices is crucial. Highlight your experience in areas like international student recruitment, transnational education initiatives (TNE), and developing strategies that cater to culturally diverse stakeholders, including academic and professional staff. Share examples of mentorship, collaboration, and leadership in multicultural settings.

2. Speak to Your Leadership Abilities:
The role requires managing high-performing teams and driving them toward ambitious enrolment targets and impactful international initiatives. Emphasise your track record of building collaborative, goal-oriented teams, and providing strategic vision at the organisational level. A high emotional intelligence (EQ) is essential—showcase your ability to connect with diverse groups and resolve challenges effectively.

3. Capture Your Global Mindset:
This role demands a nuanced understanding of the global education ecosystem. Applicants should discuss their knowledge of international priority markets and familiarity with educational structures and systems outside New Zealand. If you have experience developing programs that enhance outbound mobility or global partnerships, ensure you include specific examples.

4. Highlight Your Strategic Impact:
The Deputy Director will oversee the development of strategic plans using data-driven insights and market intelligence. Illustrate how you’ve successfully developed, implemented, and measured internationalisation strategies in previous roles. If you’ve elevated institutional reputation or enrolled significant numbers of international students, ensure these achievements are documented.

5. Prepare a Tailored Resume and Cover Letter:

• Craft your resume to highlight leadership roles, international education expertise, and measurable impact in similar positions. Focus on global initiatives and strategic contributions.
• Your cover letter should detail your alignment with Te Herenga Waka’s mission, as well as your passion for advancing the University’s profile in international education. If you have experience in compliance with codes of practice like New Zealand’s Pastoral Care Code, be sure to include this.

6. Reflect an Understanding of Inclusivity and Student Experience:
Successful applicants must demonstrate their commitment to fostering an inclusive, accessible environment for international students. Highlight programs, policies, or initiatives you’ve implemented that have improved student outcomes, streamlined services, or enhanced the international student experience.

How to Apply

To apply, you’ll need to complete the online application process by clicking the provided link in the job posting. Submit the following:

• Resume: Tailored to highlight your relevant experience and accomplishments.
• Cover Letter: A persuasive statement connecting your skills, experience, and values to the needs of the role and University.
• Supporting Documents: Include any additional certificates, testimonials, or references that affirm your suitability for the position.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged. The closing date is Thursday, 29 May 2025. International experience is a strong asset—ensure your global perspective is clearly articulated in your application materials.

Final Thoughts

As a senior leader for one of New Zealand’s leading universities, this role is a unique opportunity to influence the global reach of Victoria University of Wellington, enhancing both its reputation and the international student experience. Applicants who bring strategic insight, leadership excellence, and a deep understanding of international education dynamics will be especially competitive.

For questions or clarity about the role, contact Amy Rutherford at amy.rutherford@vuw.ac.nz, and take the time to thoughtfully tailor your application to demonstrate your enthusiasm for advancing education in an international context