Research Grants & Contracts Manager

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The University of Auckland is seeking a Research Grants & Contracts Manager to manage a portfolio of complex research and consulting agreements, leading the drafting, negotiation and execution of contracts with funders, collaborators and commercial partners. You will provide expert contract advice to researchers and stakeholders, support Advisers, review budgets and payment schedules, and ensure data accuracy while addressing IP, commercial and risk considerations with UniServices. This role is hybrid, based at City Campus with a future move to Newmarket, and offers a salary range of $87,000 to $107,500 per year. Apply online by Friday 14 August 2026 with a tailored cover letter and CV, and contact Kurt Matthes at [email protected] for a confidential chat if needed.

Company Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland  

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university. We employ more than 9000 academic and professional staff to support over 50,000 students, making us one of NZ’s largest employers.

Our mission and values place a strong emphasis on both our student body and our scholarly community, and we work with both community and enterprise to advance the well-being of the peoples of Auckland and New Zealand, with a clear commitment to pursuing sustainability.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

As a Research Grants & Contracts Manager, you will manage a portfolio of complex research and consulting agreements, leading the drafting, negotiation, and execution of contracts with funders, collaborators, and commercial partners. You will work closely with researchers, UniServices and internal stakeholders to ensure agreements align with University policy, risk appetite, and strategic priorities.

In addition to managing complex and high value contracts, you will provide guidance and support to Research Grants & Contracts Advisers during peak periods, helping to ensure a consistent and high-quality contracting service across the team.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing the negotiation and execution of complex research contracts, subcontracts, and variations
• Providing expert advice to stakeholders on contractual terms, risks, and preferred positions
• Supporting Research Grants & Contracts Advisers with workflow management and complex contract queries as required
• Reviewing contract budgets and developing payment schedules
• Building strong relationships with researchers, funders, and commercial partners
• Ensuring contract data is accurately maintained and reporting requirements are met
• Partnering with UniServices and internal specialists to address IP, commercial and risk considerations

This role offers exposure to a wide range of research activity and partnerships, and the opportunity to contribute to effective and efficient research contracting across the University.

This position is currently based at the University of Auckland's City Campus, 58 Symonds Street (with a future dated move to the Newmarket Campus). We offer flexible hybrid working arrangements that support a balance of working from home and on campus, subject to business requirements.

This is a full time, permanent employment agreement, working 37.5 hours per week.  It is a Salary Band G role with a full salary range of $87,000 - $107,500 per annum. depending on skills and experience.

For more detailed information about the role and requirements, please refer to the position description.

About the team | Mō tō mātou rōpū

The Research Grants & Contracts team is a specialist team within the Research and Innovation Office, Te Puna Tiketike which supports the negotiation and management of research and consulting agreements across the University. Working closely with researchers, Uniservices, Faculty and Institute Research Services Teams (FIRST) and external funders, the team provides expert contracting advice and supports a diverse portfolio of research activity.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You are an experienced contracts professional with strong analytical and relationship skills. You are comfortable working with complex agreements and enjoy supporting stakeholders to reach practical, well considered outcomes.

You bring a balanced approach to risk and service delivery, with the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining attention to detail. You are confident working across a diverse stakeholder environment and take a collaborative, solutions‑focused approach.

You will bring:

• Demonstrated experience negotiating, drafting, and managing complex contract and agreements.
• Strong understanding of contract terms, risk, and commercial considerations
• The ability to provide clear, practical advice to a range of stakeholders
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• A relevant tertiary qualification, ideally with exposure to contract law
• Experience within a research, university or public sector environment is advantageous, but not essential.

Additional Information

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.
• Ongoing professional development opportunities and access to a range of discounted on campus services and amenitites.
• Hear more about our partnership with Māori, our Te Ao Māori principles, our impact, our staff, and life in Auckland on our career’s website.

For further information please visit our staff benefits page.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

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

For a confidential conversation, please contact Kurt Matthes on [email protected].

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