[Hiring] Educational Leadership Subject Matter Expert @Whitecliffe

Role Description

Whitecliffe is seeking an experienced Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the development of a new Master of Educational Leadership, a Level 9, 120‑credit professionally focused qualification designed for aspiring and current secondary school leaders in Aotearoa New Zealand. This qualification will be a practice‑orientated leadership degree.

The SME will work with the Chief Academic Officer, academic team, and iwi partners (including Ngāti Whātua) to shape a programme that is academically sound, culturally grounded, and aligned with the leadership capability needs of the secondary education sector. You will provide expert input on:

• Curriculum structure
• Leadership frameworks
• Mentoring and coaching models
• Assessment design
• Alignment to Level 9 expectations

Qualifications

• Significant experience in educational leadership, preferably as a principal, senior leader, or system‑level leader.
• In‑depth knowledge of leadership capability needs in secondary schooling, including strategy, culture, teaching and learning leadership, and school improvement.
• Expertise in mentoring and coaching, particularly for leadership development and capability building.
• Understanding of Level 9 postgraduate expectations, including applied research, reflective practice, and professional inquiry.
• Strong grounding in cultural capability, including Te Tiriti o Waitangi, culturally sustaining leadership, and familiarity with iwi partnership frameworks.
• Experience designing tertiary programmes or professional learning pathways, or contributing as an advisor, reviewer, or content specialist.
• Ability to work collaboratively across academic, community, and iwi stakeholders to ensure the programme is authentic and relevant.

Requirements

• A Master’s degree or Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Education, or a related field.
• Prior experience in developing or evaluating postgraduate leadership programmes.
• Demonstrated accomplishment in leading professional learning, coaching, or leadership development for educators.

Location

New Zealand (Remote)

Department

Curriculum Development

Employment Type

Contractor

Minimum Experience

Experienced