Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland is Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading University (QS #65) with a turnover of $1.5bn, including research revenue of over $320m generated across six diverse faculties and two large scale research institutes.

With over 6,000 full-time equivalent staff and 47,000 enrolled students, the University is one of New Zealand’s most significant and complex entities. We have $4.7bn total assets spread across four main campuses, and a substantial on-going capital works programme.

This is a key role at the University of Auckland, responsible for guiding governance, legal, and enterprise risk functions to support the University’s strategic direction and uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability.

As Director, Governance and Risk & Chief Legal Officer, you will lead a team that supports governance frameworks, legal services, privacy and information access, internal audit, and enterprise risk management. You will provide expert advice to the University Council, Vice-Chancellor, and senior colleagues, and help ensure the University meets its legal and regulatory obligations.

You will work across the University to support effective decision-making, manage institutional risk, and foster a culture of ethical practice and compliance. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the University’s long-term success in a complex and evolving environment.

You are a senior legally qualified professional with significant experience in governance, legal affairs and enterprise risk. You bring sound judgement, a collaborative approach, and a strong understanding of the regulatory environment in which universities operate.

Your background will demonstrate:

• Experience developing and implementing governance, legal, or risk frameworks
• Confidence advising senior decision-makers and governance bodies
• Ability to support and develop high-performing teams
• Knowledge of privacy, compliance, and information access obligations
• A commitment to equity and understanding of the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

You will be legally qualified and eligible to obtain a New Zealand practising certificate.

You’ll be motivated by the opportunity to support a world-class institution through sound governance and ethical practice—while contributing to the future of higher education in Aotearoa New Zealand.