Chief Technical Officer

About the Opportunity

Research and Education Advanced Network New Zealand (REANNZ) is entering an exciting phase of growth and technological evolution, strengthening the digital foundations that underpin Aotearoa’s research, education, and innovation ecosystem. As demand for data-intensive research and global collaboration accelerates, the organisation is focused on expanding capability, modernising platforms, and enabling researchers to push the boundaries of discovery.

This is a pivotal moment for technology at REANNZ. The infrastructure that supports national and international research collaboration must continue to evolve to meet the needs of increasingly complex, fast-moving science and innovation.

We are seeking a visionary Chief Technology Officer to join REANNZ’s Senior Leadership Team. Based in either Auckland or Wellington, this role will define and lead the technology strategy, ensuring the organisation’s platforms, systems, and services are secure, scalable, and ready for the next generation of research and collaboration.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the development and execution of REANNZ’s technology strategy, aligned to organisational and sector priorities
• Partner with the Senior Leadership Team to deliver REANNZ’s mission, vision, and strategic direction
• Oversee the design, development, and operation of secure, high-performance digital infrastructure supporting research and education
• Build strong relationships across research organisations, universities, government agencies, private sector partners, and international NREN communities
• Identify and support new commercial and capability growth opportunities in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders
• Provide strong technical governance across platforms, programmes, and strategic initiatives
• Represent REANNZ in national and international forums, including engagement with the Board of Directors
• Champion a culture of innovation, collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement

The CTO will enable high-performing technical and cross-functional teams to deliver resilient, future-focused services that support research and innovation at scale.

What You’ll Bring

• Senior technology leadership experience in complex, infrastructure or service-led environments
• Proven ability to define and deliver technology strategy and digital transformation outcomes
• Strong experience leading multi-disciplinary technical teams through change and growth
• Background working across research, education, government, or similarly complex stakeholder environments
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, practical language for diverse audiences, including Boards
• Strong stakeholder engagement capability across technical and non-technical partners
• Strategic thinking, sound judgement, and the ability to manage risk in evolving environments
• Collaborative leadership style focused on enabling teams and building capability

The successful candidate will be motivated by purpose and by the opportunity to enable world-class research and education through robust, forward-looking digital infrastructure.

About REANNZ

REANNZ is Aotearoa New Zealand’s trusted digital backbone for research and education, enabling high-performance connectivity and services that support collaboration across the sector.

As part of the global network of National Research and Education Networks, REANNZ plays an important role in supporting international research collaboration and strengthening New Zealand’s contribution to global science and innovation.

It is a small, highly skilled organisation with a strong focus on practical, innovative solutions and meaningful impact for its members and partners.

REANNZ offers a flexible, inclusive working environment that supports wellbeing, professional growth, and impact in a fast-evolving digital landscape, underpinned by supportive leadership and a strong sense of purpose.

Next Steps

If this sounds like your next leadership challenge and an opportunity to shape the future of research and education in Aotearoa through technology leadership, apply now or get in touch with us for a confidential discussion.

Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence in this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Sarah Mowbray on +64 4 471 9723.