REANNZ develops and supports a range of products and services to support the specialist needs of our members in the R&E and innovation community.
We operate NZ's national research and education network and seamlessly connect with 120+ networks globally to enable researchers to collaborate.
REANNZ is proud to support the specialist needs of our members from NZ's research, education and innovation community.
Find out more about who REANNZ is, what we do and the people that operate New Zealand’s national research and education network.
When we're hiring you can find any job vacancies or opportunities to join the small, dedicated team at REANNZ right here on this page.
At REANNZ, our people are motivated by purpose and proud of the impact they make. They’re curious problem solvers who enjoy tackling complex challenges and supporting others to achieve greater success in their research endeavours.
Being a small organisation means everyone wears a few hats. Engineers, analysts, developers and other specialists collaborate across disciplines and contribute ideas beyond their job title. It’s a place where you can see the direct results of your work, learn from those around you, and grow your skills in meaningful ways.
Our values underpin all that we do - collaboration, innovation, trust and excellence! We are a multi-cultural team where diversity is embraced and celebrated; a professional environment with a genuine sense of community.
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 an established Head of Product and Innovation practitioner to join us as we move into the next phase ready for the next generation of research and collaboration.
What You’ll Do
• Set the strategic direction for product and innovation across REANNZ, aligning user needs, technology, capability and organisational strategy
• Lead product direction, innovation, maturity and value realisation across REANNZ – this is not day-to-day delivery or individual product ownership
• Working closely across all aspects of Service Delivery you will ensure product thinking is embedded end-to-end, new and existing services are intentionally designed, and innovation is prioritised where it delivers the greatest value and impact
• Lead the development of clear and integrated product and innovation frameworks aligned with REANNZ’s mission and organisational priorities
• Support the Senior Leadership Team by partnering with other people leaders to deliver REANNZ’s mission, vision, and strategic direction
• Provide strong technical governance across all aspects of the product and innovation lifecycle
• Champion a culture of innovation, collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement
Your Skills Are
• Senior product and innovation function leadership experience in complex, infrastructure or service-led environments
• Strong experience leading multi-disciplinary product and innovation 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 to deliver the best possible product and innovation outcomes
• Strong stakeholder engagement capability across technical and non-technical partners
• Collaborative leadership style focused on enabling teams and building capability with an end-to-end approach
The successful candidate will be motivated by creating an environment where the product and innovation lifecycle is well understood, supported by all parts of the organisation and is a true partner for delivering the needs of the research and education sector.
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, queries and applications can be sent to recruitment@reannz.co.nz
Applications are open until 5pm, Friday 7 August 2026.
Head of Product & Innovation Position Description
Find anything about our products, services, and more. Enter a query in the search input above.
