Dean | Manutaki - School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences - Otago

Dean | Manutaki 
School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences |Te Kura Para-Whakawai

•    Lead a globally recognised School in sport and exercise-related teaching and research.
•    Situated in the beautiful and culturally rich city of Dunedin.

University of Otago | Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka

The University of Otago | Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka has been a renowned place of learning and discovery for more than 150 years. We strive to become an even more successful, globally influential university, committed to upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi as we advance outstanding research and research-informed teaching to enable transformative learning and student experiences. Our Vision / Ko te Aronga is for our people and knowledge to transform lives, connect communities and nurture the environment in Ōtākou, Te Waipounamu, Aotearoa, the Pacific, and the world.

The School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences/ Te Kura Para-Whakawai has a long-standing international reputation as a leader in education, research and community service. In the 2025 QS World University Rankings for sport-related subjects, Otago is placed 11th globally and remains New Zealand’s leading university, recognised for its academic reputation, research excellence, and the strong reputation of its graduates among employers.

We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to become our new Dean / Manutaki for the School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences. Renowned for its excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement, the School is looking for a leader who brings academic credibility, strategic vision, and a collaborative spirit. The successful candidate will demonstrate a deep appreciation for the diverse cultural context of Aotearoa New Zealand, embody manaakitanga, and foster an inclusive, respectful environment where people and ideas can thrive.

The role/Te mahi

This role will advance the School’s reputation for excellence in sport and exercise science education and research. The new Dean / Manutaki will demonstrate strong and compassionate leadership and be recognised internationally as a credible leader in the field. They will drive research excellence, student success, and innovation in a collaborative environment.

With a proven record of collaboration across sport, health, community, and government sectors locally and internationally, they will strengthen the School’s partnerships and extend its impact.

The Dean will continue to foster a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. They will uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and lead the School in achieving the goals of the University’s Māori, Pacific, Equity and Diversity Strategic, and Sustainability Frameworks, ensuring culturally grounded practices and perspectives are embedded across teaching, research, and community engagement.

As a key member of the Sciences Division's leadership team, the Dean / Manutaki will contribute to the Division’s strategy supporting the PVC (Sciences) and University leaders with the broader advancement of the goals set out in the University’s strategic documents - Pae Tata and Vision 2040.

Person Specifications
To be considered for appointment, candidates will ideally have:
•    An outstanding record of demonstrable scholarly and professional achievement in a discipline area related to sport and exercise science, sport development/management, or physical activity/health. 
•    A proven ability to build meaningful relationships and drive external engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders, including sporting organisations, community groups, and industry partners.
•    A record of outstanding leadership in teaching and the ability to inspire high academic endeavour.
•    Strong academic management and leadership skills that foster an inclusive, collegial, and high-performing culture.
•    Experience supervising postgraduate research theses in relevant fields.
•    Ability to work with University leaders to achieve University strategy.
•    Knowledge and awareness of te ao Māori values and key cultural aspects, with a commitment to respect and uphold these values, guided by Ngāi Tahu as mana whenua in the region.

While the University has a strong preference for making an appointment at the level of Professor, it is open to making an appointment to the level of Associate Professor if that rank is appropriate for the most suitable candidate.

Further details/Pūroko

The University of Otago is committed to upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and our relationship with Ngāi Tahu, the mana whenua of Te Waipounamu, is central to our identity. Mātauranga Māori is increasingly embedded across our teaching and research, and we value leaders who can support and grow this kaupapa with integrity and respect.

Collaboration and collegiality are important values in the School and we seek a colleague who will both enjoy and enhance our cooperative work environment. Whakawhanaungatanga (connection), manaaitanga (respect), ngākau pono (integrity), ngākau reka (positivity), māhirahira (curiosity) underpin the School’s culture.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to give a presentation to the School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences (SPSES) staff and postgraduate students as part of the selection process.

The interview programme is scheduled to take place in late January 2026. Please note in your cover letter whether you are available at this time.

For confidential enquiries, please contact Farai Madambi, Senior Recruitment Consultant.

Application | Tono

To apply, please submit:

•    A cover letter outlining your interest and availability.
•    A CV.
•    Contact details for three referees.

Applications quoting reference number 2501540 close on Sunday, 23 November 2025.