Product Owner x2 (fixed term)

Tēnā koe. Nau mai ki te Kuratini Tuwhera.

Mō te tūnga | About the role

As a Product Owner, you'll play a pivotal role in driving the evolution of two key digital platforms which could include Online Learning Management (OLM), Business Intelligence (BI), Communications, and the Student Management System (SMS). You'll work at the intersection of strategy, technology, and user experience, helping deliver impactful solutions that support flexible, accessible education across Aotearoa.

Reporting to the Architecture Manager, you'll be part of a high-performing team responsible for the strategic design and continuous evolution of Open Polytechnic's digital ecosystem.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative, architecture-led environment and is motivated by the opportunity to contribute to scalable, sustainable digital solutions that support learners across Aotearoa.

This position is a fixed-term position for 18 months and is based at our campus in Lower Hutt, with some flexibility around working from home.

Key responsibilities include:

• Define and communicate product vision aligned with strategic goals and learner needs.

• Own and prioritise product backlogs, translating requirements into actionable tasks.

• Collaborate with developers, designers, architects, and stakeholders to deliver high-value solutions.

• Integrate user insights and feedback into product development to enhance experience and accessibility.

• Monitor product performance and drive continuous improvement.

• Facilitate clear communication between technical and non-technical audiences.

Ngā pūkenga mo te tūnga | What you will bring to the role

The position description sets out in detail the experience, skills and competencies you will bring to this role, with the following deemed critical to your successful performance of role accountabilities:

• A tertiary qualification in digital product development, IT, business, or a related field.

• 3-5 years' experience as a Product Owner, Business Analyst, or similar role in agile/lean environments.

• 5-7 years' total experience in digital product development or IT project delivery.

• Strong skills in backlog management, agile frameworks, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Excellent communication, analytical thinking, and decision-making abilities.

• A user-centric mindset and a proactive, collaborative approach.

Mō mātou | About us

The Kuratini Tuwhera is Aotearoa New Zealand's leading distance and online learning provider. We specialise in taking the learning to our students, focusing on enabling the success of approximately 30,000 students each year. We're a place where you can make a difference.

We offer a wide range of learning disciplines from Real Estate to Social Work, Construction and Education. From our Academic Staff Members to our Student Journey Centre, we ensure our students are at the heart of everything we do, every step of the way.

Ngā hua o tō tomo mai ki a mātou | Why you should join our team

We offer our people free education when undertaking Open Polytechnic courses (50% off for whanau), free car parking on campus, flexible working options (including some working from home), subsidised school holiday programmes for your children, free fitness classes, and an on-site café.

We are proud of our kaimahi and value every contribution from all our people.

Tono mai | Apply now

Applications must be submitted online via our career's website. Contact recruit@openpolytechnic.ac.nz with any questions about the role. Applications close 11pm Friday 29 August 2025.

Noho ora mai. Tēnā koe.