Head of Digital Security

A new era in vocational education is taking shape in Tāmaki Makaurau.

The unification of Unitec and Manukau Institute of Technology — two respected institutions with over 50 years of service — will transform Auckland’s public vocational education landscape. This is a bold step toward a more equitable, responsive system grounded in partnership, purpose, and place, reflecting the aspirations of our diverse communities, industries, and Māori across the region.

Lead security through one of New Zealand’s most significant digital transformations.

This is a rare opportunity to shape how security is designed, embedded and scaled across a newly integrated organisation bringing together MIT and Unitec into one future-focused entity.

You’ll ensure security enables innovation, not slows it down.

Why this role

This isn’t about maintaining the status quo - it’s about building what security looks like next.

• Lead security across a large-scale organisational integration
• Own and shape the enterprise cyber security strategy
• Influence at executive level on risk, resilience and investment
• Build a modern, cloud-enabled security environment
• Position security as a business enabler, not a blocker

What you’ll do

• Define and deliver the enterprise security strategy
• Embed secure-by-design across platforms and delivery
• Own cyber risk, compliance and resilience
• Lead and grow a high-performing security function
• Advise executives on threats, risk and organisational readiness

For the full position description see below.

What you’ll bring

• Proven experience leading large-scale organisational mergers and digital integration programmes, including consolidation of platforms, teams, and operating models to deliver a unified enterprise
• Senior leadership experience in cyber/security within complex environments
• Strength in security strategy, risk and governance
• Experience with frameworks such as NZISM, NIST, ISO 27001
• Ability to translate technical risk into business impact
• Proven track record of building capability and leading through change

Why join us

There’s real work to be done here - and real opportunity to shape how security supports it.

• Shape security during a full organisational reset
• High visibility and influence at senior leadership level
• Opportunity to build and evolve a function from the ground up
• 3 - 4 days per week on campus, with some flexibility
• Purpose-led impact supporting learners, whānau and communities

This is a role defined by its scope, influence and long-term impact offering a level of ownership and visibility that stands out in the market.

Submit your CV and a short cover letter outlining what excites you about this opportunity.

Applications close Friday 17 July at 3.00pm, however we will be reviewing applications as they are received and may progress with suitable candidates ahead of this date.

If you have any questions about the role, please contact Alison Redfern-Daly, Talent Acquisition Business Partner, at ***email_hidden*** Please note this email address is for queries only and should not be used to submit applications.

Manukau Institute of Technology and Unitec are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and celebrate diversity and are committed to building a supportive and inclusive environment for all.

Disclaimer: This position has been identified as a potential redeployment for kaimahi who have had their position impacted through change. Therefore, in assessing applications, affected kaimahi will be given preference and priority.