Prof Majella Franzmann, an Australian who took over as head the humanities division in September 2007, resigned in November to take up a position as humanities pro-vice-chancellor at Curtin University of Technology in Perth.
She finishes at Otago on Friday.
Humanities is one of four academic divisions at Otago.
It comprises the arts and social sciences, law, Maori studies and college of education faculties teaching almost 5000 equivalent full-time students.
Prof Franzmann, whose background is in religious studies teaching and research, said her reasons for leaving were personal.
Her partner, also an academic from Australia, was seeking work and Perth, with its five universities, offered career possibilities for them both.
Her position at Otago had been her first management post and had been a "great testing ground", she said.
"It's been a great experience ... and I think I'm leaving the division in good heart."
Applications for the vacancy closed at the end of February.
An appointment has yet to be announced.
