Research Grants and Contracts Manager

Company Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is Aotearoa’s leading university and largest research institution, ranked in the Global top 100.  We employ over 9,000 staff and support 50,000 students to achieve their ambitions.

As one of New Zealand’s most enduring brands, the University leads the way in teaching and research excellence positively impacting the lives of its people, communities and society at large.

Job Description

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:

• Managing the drafting, negotiation and execution processes for a portfolio of complex agreements.
• Providing timely updates to stakeholders on contract progress and status.
• Supporting the team during peak periods by assisting with standard agreements and variations and providing contractual advice and supporting training.
• Ensuring accurate contract tracking and reporting through research management systems.
• Leading and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives across the Research Grants & Contracts team.

For more information, please see Position Description

The pay range is $87,000 - $103,000 pa depending on experience.

This is a full-time, permanent role (37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday). 

He kōrero mōu | About you

You’re a detail-oriented professional with strong contract negotiation skills and financial acumen. Known for your clear communication and collaborative approach, you manage relationships and workloads effectively, adapt well to change, and bring a positive, solutions-focused mindset to everything you do.

Experience working in a tertiary or research setting with negotiation and management of complex contracts is preferred. A Bachelor of Laws degree with experience in contracting would be an advantage.

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.
• Career development programmes and discounted on-site amenities.

Hear more about our partnership with Māori, our Te Ao Māori principles, our impact, our staff and life in Auckland on our careers website

Qualifications

Additional Information

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply 

Applications should be submitted online, before the closing date of Sunday 14th June, 2026 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.  

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

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