Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
We are seeking a Product Manager - Enterprise AI to lead the University's vision, strategy and roadmap for Artificial Intelligence. This role will play a critical part in shaping how AI is adopted and applied across the University, ensuring investments deliver measurable value while aligning with the University's AI Action Plan, governance frameworks and digital strategy.
Working across business domains, digital delivery teams, data specialists, architecture, security and senior stakeholders, you will identify opportunities where AI can improve services, decision-making and operational efficiency. You will take ownership of the AI product lifecycle, from discovery and business case development through to implementation, governance, measurement and continuous improvement.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Product Manager to help define the future of AI at the University. You will be responsible for balancing innovation with responsible delivery, ensuring AI initiatives are supported by strong data governance, appropriate security controls, clear outcomes and robust return on investment. While you will not develop AI models directly, you will work closely with technical teams to translate business challenges into AI-enabled solutions that are practical, scalable and trustworthy.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Developing and maintaining the University's AI vision, roadmap and product strategy
- Leading the prioritisation and lifecycle management of AI-enabled products and services
- Partnering with architecture, security, data and delivery teams to ensure AI solutions are scalable, secure and governed appropriately
- Building business cases and evaluating opportunities based on value, cost, risk and measurable outcomes
- Engaging and influencing stakeholders across the University to drive adoption and understanding of AI initiatives
- Promoting best practice in responsible AI, data governance and ethical decision-making
This is a 24-month fixed-term, full-time position (37.5 hours per week). The salary range for this role is $135,000 to $155,000, negotiable depending on skills and experience.
A full description of your duties and the role are provided in the position description linked HERE
He kōrero mōu | About you
You are an experienced Product Manager who enjoys working at the intersection of strategy, technology and business outcomes. You have a strong understanding of AI and machine learning concepts and can confidently assess opportunities, risks and value propositions associated with AI-enabled solutions.
You are comfortable leading conversations around governance, security, architecture, data quality and return on investment, and can translate complex technical concepts into clear business outcomes. You bring a collaborative approach, strong stakeholder management skills, and experience guiding products through their full lifecycle, from discovery and prioritisation through to delivery and continuous improvement.
You are equally comfortable working with senior leaders, business owners, architects, security teams and technical specialists, helping align diverse perspectives around a shared vision and measurable outcomes.
E rapua ana mātou | We are seeking
- Significant experience in Product Management, Product Ownership or a similar strategic leadership role within a large and complex organisation
- Strong understanding of AI and machine learning concepts, including governance, risk, security and responsible AI practices
- Experience developing product roadmaps, business cases and investment priorities that deliver measurable outcomes and return on investment
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and build alignment across business, data, architecture, security and delivery teams
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to influence senior leaders and translate technical concepts into business value
- Experience managing the full product lifecycle, including discovery, prioritisation, delivery, governance and continuous improvement
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer
Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university, guided by a commitment to excellence and service to our communities. With more than 6,000 academic and professional staff, we support a diverse community of over 47,000 students.
Guided by our values, we work collaboratively to advance knowledge, foster equity and inclusion, and contribute meaningfully to New Zealand’s social, cultural, and economic well-being.
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
- Discounted public Transport for permanent and long-term fixed term staff
- Superannuation/KiwiSaver, matching up to 6.75%
- Flexible working arrangements, including working from home and flexible hours
- Leading, and inclusive parental leave provisions
- Career development opportunities and a range of benefits, including discounted insurance, memberships, and on‑site amenities
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Please submit your application online by the closing date of Sunday, 11 October 2026. Your application should include:
- A brief Cover Letter explaining why you're interested in this role and how your skills match the requirements.
- Your updated CV.
Please note that we do not accept email applications.
For a confidential discussion, you are welcome to contact Neil Gardner, Senior Recruitment Consultant, [email protected]
Additional InformationEquity
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
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