Job Description
Company Description
Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland - is New Zealand’s leading university. The University of Auckland creates globally transformative impacts through its distinctive strengths in world-leading research, scholarship, teaching and collaborative partnerships, inspired by its unique position in Aotearoa New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific.
Job Description
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
We have an exciting opportunity for a Portfolio Lead to join us! The Portfolio Lead will play a central role in the research project team. Working side-by-side with the Principle Investigator (PI), the Portfolio Lead will ensure post-award compliance with institutional and funding bodies’ requirements. As the University fulfils different roles within each of the Horizon Europe projects, the Portfolio Lead will be required to coordinate with consortium members to ensure the timely delivery of contractual obligations.
As Portfolio Lead, you will be responsible for:
- Overseeing the administrative, financial, and legal management of Horizon Europe-funded projects.
- Ensuring that the University meets its obligations under the Grant Agreement and the Consortium Agreement.
- Monitoring Budgets, including the breakdown and transfer of funds, tracking expenditure, and preparing internal financial reports.
- Coordinating the preparation, consolidation and submission of financial reports, working closely with the OneFinance Team to meet European Commission deadlines.
- Ensuring that all documents needed for justifying expenses are correctly defined and archived by each partner, anticipating the possibility of future audits.
In addition to post-award management of Horizon Europe contracts, the Portfolio Lead will be pivotal in lifting capacity within Research Services to support Horizon Europe projects. You will be responsible for:
- Developing and implementing internal tools (e.g., procedures, guidelines, templates, collaborative platform).
- Delivering training and information sessions.
- Provide ongoing peer support across the University’s research support teams.
This is a full-time position working 37.5 hours per week, on a fixed-term contract for 12 months.
Salary: Band G – $87,000 to $107,500 per annum depending on skills and experience.
For more information, please review the Position Description.
He kōrero mōu | About you
- Excellent working knowledge of administrative and financial management (at least 5 years of experience in administrative and financial management of European or international projects).
- Sound knowledge of the European Commission management rules associated with the Horizon Europe framework programme.
- Working knowledge of research management systems and processes within a University or similar research intensive organisation.
- Advanced Excel skills, including strong capability in data analysis and use of pivot tables.
- Good teamwork abilities, particularly in a multicultural and multi-disciplinary context.
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Proven ability to identify issues and propose practical solutions to complex problems.
- A passion for developing others through training, knowledge-sharing, and coaching.
Mō tō mātou rōpū | About the team
This role is a conjoint opportunity between the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) and Research Operations, Ethics & Integrity (RIO), and is embedded within ABI.
Reporting to the Senior Manager – Research Services Improvement, you will work closely with both RIO and the Research Services team within ABI, bridging central research support and institute-based delivery.
ABI is a world-leading research institute specialising in innovative bioengineering solutions. It brings together engineers, scientists, clinicians, and technologists in a collaborative, collegial, and inclusive environment to develop biomedical technologies that improve lives. The Institute has strong connections across academia, industry, and government and is driven by research excellence and real-world impact.
Additional Information
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer
The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university, located in one of the world’s most liveable cities. We are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive working environment.
- Flexible working options (including WFH where appropriate)
- Up to 6.75% employer superannuation contribution (for eligible staff)
- Five weeks’ annual leave (depending on role and contract)
- Career development and progression opportunities
- Access to wellbeing programmes and staff support services
- Discounts on parking, childcare, and a range of internal and external services
Please note that some benefits may vary depending on the nature and duration of the appointment.
For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Applications must be submitted online by Wednesday 24th of June 2026 (NZST)
Please include your CV and cover letter, outlining how your skills and experience align with the role.
For a confidential conversation, please contact Kira Finucane [email protected]
Please note applications cannot be accepted via 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, LGBTQIATakatāpu iMVPFAFF + , people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz
