Commercialisation Capability Lead

As Commercialisation Capability Lead, you will lead the design and delivery of programmes that build commercialisation awareness, skills and engagement across our academic community. You will establish and scale the Waikato University Incubation Programme, using Hiko Hub as its physical incubation space, and develop workshops, e-learning resources, industry connection treks and tailored support for researchers at different stages of their commercialisation journey.

This is a senior, highly collaborative role. You will be the primary connector between researchers and the University's end-to-end commercialisation services, helping move research from initial disclosure and intellectual property protection through to licensing, incubation and venture creation. You will build strong relationships with senior academic leaders, research institutes, partner universities and organisations across New Zealand's innovation and startup ecosystem.

Success will include establishing a scalable faculty-wide incubation programme, delivering accessible capability-building resources, creating valuable connections between researchers and industry, and demonstrating increased researcher engagement with commercialisation pathways.

Salary will be based on the skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a permanent, full-time role of 37.5 hours per week, based in Hamilton.

For more information, please see the position description. All applications must be submitted through the online portal. Emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? - Who are you?

You are an experienced commercialisation or innovation professional who enjoys creating new programmes, building capability and connecting people with the expertise and networks they need to succeed.

You will bring:

• A doctoral qualification in a relevant discipline, such as science, engineering, business, health or technology.
• At least seven years' experience in research commercialisation, technology transfer, incubation or acceleration programme management, or a closely related role.
• Demonstrated experience designing and managing incubation or acceleration programmes, ideally within a university or research environment.
• Experience developing capability-building programmes, workshops and educational content for researchers and professional staff.
• Strong knowledge of the research commercialisation lifecycle, including invention disclosure, intellectual property protection, licensing, spin-out creation and venture development.
• Excellent programme management, communication and stakeholder relationship skills.
• Experience working within, or closely with, the New Zealand research commercialisation ecosystem.
• Cultural competence and a genuine commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including the ability to engage respectfully with Māori researchers and communities.

Experience designing e-learning content, working with innovation spaces, organising industry connection programmes, or building networks across the startup and investment ecosystem would be an advantage. Additional qualifications in commercialisation, entrepreneurship, innovation management, programme management or adult education would also be welcomed.

You will be a strategic and practical thinker who is comfortable working in an evolving environment. Your collaborative approach, facilitation skills and entrepreneurial mindset will help inspire researchers and stakeholders to engage with new commercialisation opportunities.

Don't meet every single requirement? Research shows that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At The University of Waikato, we're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and genuine workplace. So, if you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly match every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You might be just the right person for this or another opportunity on our team.

Ko wai mātou? - Who are we?

Commercial & Business Partnerships is a strategic function within the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Office. The team supports researchers across the University's faculties and research institutes, providing an integrated commercialisation service from intellectual property protection through to licensing, incubation and venture creation.

The role will work closely with the wider Commercial & Business Partnerships team, embedded Commercialisation Leads, Hiko Hub, the Research Office, the Centre for Tertiary Teaching and Learning, and academic leaders across the University. External relationships include partner universities, KiwiNet, Knowledge Commercialisation Australasia, government agencies and startup ecosystem partners.

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 New Zealand in accordance with New Zealand immigration regulations.

Ko Te Tangata - For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities 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: Thursday November 5, 2026

Requisition number: 1003966