Chief Executive / Tumu Whakarae
Kia Puāwai
CHIEF EXECUTIVE | TUMU WHAKARAE
- Lead purpose-driven, bicultural practice
- Make real impact for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau
- Auckland-based national role
Supporting whānau, strengthening futures
Ko wai mātou | About us
Kia Puāwai is dedicated to helping tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau grow, flourish and prosper. Guided by the vision Kia Tupu, Kia Hua, Kia Puāwai, the organisation draws from both te ao Māori and te ao Tauiwi to strengthen wellbeing, enhance mana and support each person’s wairua.
With a national footprint and a strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Kia Puāwai delivers high-quality services that are culturally appropriate, evidence-based and responsive to the needs of young people, families and communities. The organisation maintains strong relationships with iwi, hapū, government agencies and the wider social services sector. Values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, wairuatanga and aroha are woven through all aspects of practice, service and leadership.
Following long-term stable leadership, Kia Puāwai is entering its next chapter - and welcomes a Chief Executive who shares their purpose, integrity and aspiration for whānau and communities to thrive.
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role
Reporting to the Board, the Chief Executive holds responsibility for the overall leadership, performance and sustainability of Kia Puāwai. This role provides strategic direction, cultural leadership, operational and financial oversight to ensure the organisation remains resilient, future-focused and grounded in tikanga.
You’ll lead a high-performing Senior Leadership Team, uphold tikanga and values-based practice and ensure the delivery of high-quality services that make a tangible, positive difference. You will guide long-term strategic direction, ensure financial resilience in a complex funding environment, and continue to strengthen trusted relationships with iwi, hapū, government partners and community stakeholders.
This is a visible leadership role that requires compassion, drive and strategic insight. You’ll bring hope, energy and a strengths-based approach that is mana enhancing at every step.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
The ideal candidate will have:
- Strong experience working with Māori communities and genuine confidence operating in te ao Māori environments.
- Senior executive leadership experience in a complex social services, NGO, health or government setting.
- Proven ability to lead organisational performance, financial sustainability, quality practice and continuous improvement.
- Strength in building enduring relationships with Ministers, government agencies, iwi, sector partners and funders.
- A steady and composed leadership style that remains calm under pressure, with sound judgement and cultural intelligence.
- A relevant tertiary qualification.
KA KATI NGĀ TONO/ APPLICATIONS CLOSE: Monday, 6th April 2026
MŌ TE TONO, MŌ TE TIROTIRO TĀTAI TŪRANGA / APPLY OR VIEW THE POSITION DESCRIPTION: www.jacksonstone.co.nz
TAUPĀNGA /REFERENCE: BH-11568
ME HE PĀTAI ANŌ / FURTHER ENQUIRIES: Annalee Hoogeveen 04-550 8041 / 021 921 802 or Emma Dewson 027 218 4129
