Associate Director - International Recruitment and Market Development

The University of Waikato; Hamilton; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Waikato is seeking an experienced leader to assume the role of Associate Director, International Recruitment and Market Development. You will shape our global recruitment strategy, grow international partnerships and develop student pathways across markets.

Reporting to the Director, Global Recruitment and Mobility, you will oversee a team of recruitment professionals based in New Zealand and offshore, guiding channel investments, partnerships and pipeline performance to

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading international recruitment teams.
• Experience shaping recruitment and market development strategies.
• Ability to build partnerships with international institutions and agents.

Responsibilities

• Shape global recruitment and market development strategy.
• Build international partnerships and grow global student pathways.
• Lead initiatives to strengthen Waikato’s global reputation.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

International recruitment

Market development

Stakeholder management

Data analysis

Job description

Job Description

Lead international recruitment and market development strategies that grow global partnerships, strengthen our reach and attract future students.

• Shape our global recruitment and market development strategy
• Build international partnerships and grow global student pathways
• Lead initiatives that strengthen Waikato’s global reputation

Ngā Kōrero Mō Te Teranga – About The Role

This is an opportunity to lead an important international portfolio and play a key role in shaping our future global growth. As Associate Director, International Recruitment and Market Development, you will provide strategic leadership for international recruitment performance, market development, international marketing initiatives, agent and partner networks and pipeline growth across global markets.

Reporting to the Director, Global Recruitment and Mobility, you will lead the development and delivery of international recruitment strategies that support the University's growth, diversification and internationalisation objectives. You will oversee a team of recruitment professionals based both in New Zealand and offshore, and will have significant influence over market prioritisation, channel investment, partnership development and student pipeline performance.

Working closely with internal teams, you will help ensure a connected and effective approach across the student recruitment journey, aligning recruitment, admissions and conversion activities to support enrolment success. You will also contribute to institutional planning through market intelligence, forecasting, performance analysis and strategic advice to senior leaders.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced international education leader who wants to make a significant contribution to the future direction of a globally connected university with ambitious international goals.

This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week) position based at our Hillcrest Campus in Hamilton. For more information on the role, please see the position description .

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You are an experienced leader with a strong understanding of international student recruitment and the global education environment. Whether your background is in higher education, pathway programmes, international marketing, or business development, you'll bring both strategic capability and a track record of delivering results.

You are comfortable discussing long-term market opportunities, leading high-performing teams and building trusted relationships with partners and stakeholders. You will combine commercial awareness with a collaborative approach and understand the importance of balancing growth, student quality, diversification and reputation.

We're Looking For Someone Who

• Has substantial experience in leading successful teams in international recruitment, marketing, business or market development.
• Has successfully delivered recruitment growth and developed high-performing recruitment channels and partnerships.
• Understands the opportunities and challenges facing international education and global student mobility.
• Uses data, market intelligence and insights to inform strategy and decision-making.
• Enjoys developing people and creating a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Builds strong relationships with agents, partners, schools, institutions and internal stakeholders.
• Demonstrates cultural competence and a commitment to the University's partnership with Māori.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?

The International and Engagement Office leads the University's international engagement, partnership, student mobility and recruitment activities. Our team works to strengthen the University's global profile, build meaningful partnerships and connect students from around the world with a University of Waikato education.

The University of Waikato is internationally recognised for the quality of its teaching, research excellence and student experience. We are proud of our strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, diversity and community engagement and of the positive impact we make locally and globally.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success! Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations.

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on September 30, 2026

Requisition number: 1003876