Former New Zealand PM lands University of Sydney appointment

Former New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern has been appointed as a lecturer and mentor at the University of Sydney.

Ardern has been hired as a professor of practice with a focus on empathetic leadership, social cohesion and civic trust, the university said, but added that it is not a full-time teaching role. In her new role, she will explore new ways to address global health challenges, inclusion and wellbeing, as well as lead guest lectures and masterclasses.

University of Sydney vice-chancellor and president Mark Scott said he had “long admired the courage and humanity” Ardern brought to public life. Ardern said she was hoping to “explore and develop ways to better serve our communities”.

Ardern was elected prime minister of New Zealand at the age of 37 and served in office between 2017 and 2023. During her tenure, she led the country through the Christchurch terrorist attack, the Whakaari White Island volcanic eruption and the COVID pandemic. In 2023, she was awarded a damehood for her services to the state, a few months after she announced her shock resignation as prime minister, and along with her family moved to Australia in February 2026.