Tumuaki – Chief Executive Officer

• Lead an organisation entering an exciting new phase
• Champion equitable learning across rural Tairāwhiti and Wairoa District
• Inspire, collaborate and empower others to ignite potential in every learner

Mō te tūranga – About the role

Tairāwhiti REAP plays a vital role in supporting education and community development across the region, from Pōtaka in the north to Kotemaori in the south. As a locally led, not-for-profit organisation, Tairāwhiti REAP delivers lifelong learning programmes that are responsive, contextual, and designed by and for the community.

Following a strategic reset, the organisation is entering a refreshed and forward-looking phase. The Board is now seeking a values-led Tumuaki - Chief Executive Officer to strengthen foundations, embed new ways of working, and lead Tairāwhiti REAP into its next chapter.

Reporting to the Board, you will provide strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the organisation continues to thrive and deliver education opportunities that make a real difference for tamariki, rangatahi, whānau, and communities.

Ngā kawenga matua – What you’ll do

• Contribute to the development and lead the implementation of Tairāwhiti REAP’s strategic plan, and uphold its Kaupapa and values
• Strengthen organisational capability and embed consistent systems and processes
• Champion equitable, lifelong education outcomes for rural communities
• Build and sustain strong relationships with ECE services including rural playgroups, rural schools, adult learners, iwi, hapū, government agencies and community partners
• Ensure all contractual obligations are delivered to a high standard
• Represent the organisation within the REAP Aotearoa collective
• Work collaboratively with the Board to support sound governance and informed decision-making, monitor contractual outcomes through robust reporting, and ensure the financial sustainability of the organisation
• Support a positive, cohesive and future-focussed organisational culture

He kōrero mōu – About you

You’ll be a collaborative, people-focused leader who thrives in environments undergoing positive change. You bring warmth, steadiness and clarity to your leadership, and you’re motivated by the opportunity to strengthen an organisation and set it up for long-term success.

You do not need to be an educator by profession, but you must bring a strong understanding of the education system – how early childhood, schools, kura, adult learning and community education interact, and the challenges and opportunities for learners across rural communities.

You will also demonstrate:

• Proven experience in organisational leadership and management
• Skills in organisational development, change leadership, and building capability
• Strong financial, operational, and people management capability
• Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and experience applying its principles in practice
• Ability to build meaningful relationships and partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders
• Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills
• Established relationships and networks with key stakeholders including Iwi, Hapū and Whānau across Tairāwhiti REAP region would also be beneficial.

Competency in Te Reo Māori, Tikanga and Mātauranga Māorii would be an advantage, but is not essential.

He aha ai? – Why join Tairāwhiti REAP?

This is a significant opportunity to lead an organisation through a period of renewal and growth. You will help shape the future of a respected  community provider and support lifelong learning across the Tairāwhiti region.

You’ll lead a dedicated team passionate about making a positive impact and supporting learners of all ages to ignite their potential.

This is a permanent position, and can be based in either the Gisborne or Wairoa office.

To find out more about Tairawhiti REAP visit their website at https://www.tairawhitireap.org.nz/

Send your CV and a cover letter to Kirsty McLaren or Natalie Frank by Wednesday 14 January 2026. 

A position description is available on our website at mclaren.co.nz or call us on 04 499 1069.

Once applications have closed, we will commence the shortlisting process, which can take up to two weeks. We will be in touch with you regarding your application during this time.

Please note that our office will be closed for the Christmas holidays from 5pm 19th December, and will reopen on Monday 5th January.

View the position description by copying this link into your browser: https://mclaren.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/Tairawhiti-REAP-PD-Tumuaki-17.11.25.pdf