Kaihautū - Executive Director
$130,000 – $160,000 per year | Wellington Central
About the organisation
Our client is a regional Kaupapa Māori Charitable Trust, established to support regional Māori Economic development across Te Ūpoko o Te Ika. Economic Development is driven through a shared strategy developed in collaboration with key stakeholders, including:
• Greater Wellington Regional Council
• Māori entrepreneurs
• SMEs
• Iwi‑based commercial entities
• Rangatahi
• Business networks across the rohe
About you
We are seeking a Kaupapa Māori leader and relationship manager to guide strategy, build strong networks, and deliver high‑impact programmes. This hands‑on Executive Director role is not a traditional role - you’ll work alongside partners, advocates, and the Board to drive the mahi from strategy to on‑the‑ground delivery.
Success in this role will come from having strong, relevant networks across local and central government, iwi, business networks, and education. You will be tasked with unlocking Māori potential and capability, and ensuring Māori values and leadership are embedded in the future of the Wellington region.
The Role
Lead and support the Board to achieve strategic objectives and deliver core programmes—the strategic plan is clear.
Operationally manage partnerships and project delivery.
Manage funding applications and agreements.
Advocate at governance level while also delivering Kaupapa on the ground.
Leverage shared resources and networks to seek out opportunities.
No direct reports—you will have autonomy.
Travel across Te Ūpoko o Te Ika to support and build on relationships.
Skills & Experience
Proven experience in Kaupapa Māori economic or community development.
A skilled relationship builder with iwi, Māori business networks, and government partnerships.
Capability to manage modest budgets and deliver through partnerships.
Deep understanding of Māori governance and tikanga Māori in decision‑making.
Excellent communication—formal reporting, public speaking, stakeholder engagement.
Collaborative, agile leadership with a hands‑on approach.
Desirable
Experience with procurement, digital innovation, or rangatahi workforce initiatives.
Knowledge of government funding systems and economic development frameworks.
Reo Māori proficiency or a strong commitment to developing it.
Why Apply?
Be central to shaping Kaupapa Māori‑led transformative change in Aotearoa.
Operate with autonomy, supported by trusted networks and meaningful partnerships.
Be supported by an outstanding Board that is committed to the Kaupapa.
Please note: only applicants with the legal right to work in New Zealand will be considered for this role.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience in Kaupapa Māori leadership and economic development. Applications will remain open until a suitable applicant is engaged. We will be screening applications as they come to us. For any pātai, contact Anita Murdoch for confidential discussion.
Anita Murdoch
Director
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience in Kaupapa Māori leadership and economic development. Applications will remain open until a suitable applicant is engaged. We will be screening applications as they come to us. For any pātai, contact Anita Murdoch for confidential discussion.