Careers in the Innovation Ecosystem

About the Programme:

Careers in the Innovation Ecosystem is a four-part series designed to open your eyes to exciting, unexpected career paths you didn’t even know existed. From edgy start-ups and scale-ups to innovation roles in government, corporates, and research labs – this series is your backstage pass to the real world of innovation in Aotearoa.

You’ll explore the reality of working in fast-moving organisations and hear from early-stage career professionals. Discover how the things that make you unique can work for you, and get practical tips on how to build experience, grow your network, and stand out. Whether you’re studying science, arts, business, design, law, or engineering, if you’re curious about big ideas, creating change, or building a future-proof career, this programme is for you.

No innovation and entrepreneurship experience? No problem! Just bring your curiosity, questions, and appetite for something a little different. Innovation needs all kinds of thinkers. Ready to find your place?

CIE’s programmes are free for University of Auckland students and staff. These co-curricular programmes help develop innovation and entrepreneurship skills alongside formal studies. While there are no formal assessments, participation may count towards the co-curricular recognition programme and the Distinguished Graduate Award.

Your Opportunity:

• Explore the future of work – Discover how innovation is shaping careers in Aotearoa across start-ups, corporates, research, and beyond.
• Meet the insiders – Hear straight from key stakeholders, investors, and professionals who’ve carved out cool careers in innovation.
• Find your fit – Discover roles you’ve never heard of and learn how your background can be an asset in this space.
• Get real – Unpack the highs, lows, and realities of working in innovation through honest conversations with early-career professionals.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand innovation landscape – How innovation works across start-ups, corporates, government, and research in New Zealand and how it drives social and economic change.
• Gain career clarity – Discover the wide range of roles in innovation—beyond just founders and techies.
• Develop transferable skills awareness – Identify how your degree and skills can be applied in different parts of the innovation world.
• Gain career confidence – Get practical tips on how to stand out when applying for innovation-related jobs and build networks with industry professionals.

Timing and Commitment:

• Duration: 4 sessions, 2 hours each
• Commitment: 2 hours per week per session

Session 1: Understanding the innovation ecosystem – 24 July, 5–7 PM

What even is the innovation ecosystem? Learn how start-ups, investors, universities, corporates, government, and research organisations all play a part – and where you might fit in.

Register for Session 1

Session 2: Finding your place – Roles beyond the founder – 31 July, 5–7 PM

Not everyone wants to be the boss. Uncover the wide range of roles behind every successful innovation – from product and marketing to operations, finance, and design.

Register for Session 2

Session 3: What it’s really like to work in innovation – 7 August, 5–7 PM

No sugar-coating here. Hear honest reflections from early-career professionals about the highs, lows, and everything in between.

Register for Session 3

Session 4: Making your move – Getting involved and building connections – 14 August, 5–7 PM

It’s not just what you know – it’s who you meet, how you show up, and what you do next. Get insider tips on internships, volunteering, networking, and more.

Register for Session 4

If you have questions about the programme, please contact cie_programmes@auckland.ac.nz.