We are seeking a registered medical practitioner to join the Board of The Sutherland Self Help Trust as a Trustee (Medical). This role provides an opportunity to contribute medical expertise to the governance of a long‑standing New Zealand charitable trust.
About the Trust
Founded in 1941, the Sutherland Self Help Trust was established by the Sutherland Family, who pioneered New Zealand’s first chain of grocery stores, The Self Help Co-op.
The pioneering spirit of The Sutherland Family saw them reject traditional trading methods and opt instead for a business model that would support the community.
This included setting up The Sutherland Self Help Trust to assist registered charities in New Zealand through Grants in order to deliver services to support the community.
Trust Values
- Create Tūrangawaewae: We help others create places where people feel especially empowered and connected. These are their foundations, their places in the world, their homes.
- Manaakitanga: We uphold people’s dignity and give of ourselves to others.
- Promote Self Help: We support groups that are resourceful and efficient and will provide lasting benefits to the community.
About the Role
Role and Responsibilities
The Board is responsible for the overall governance of the organisation, including to:
- Uphold the Trust’s purpose and values
- Ensure effective governance and decision‑making
- Oversee financial stewardship and risk management
- Ensure compliance with relevant laws, including New Zealand Charities Services requirements
- Approve strategic priorities, policies, and major investments
- Maintain transparency and accountability to stakeholders
Ideal Candidate Profile
- NZ-registered medical doctor
- Previous board or committee experience (optional/not required)
- Understanding of health‑related community needs
- Ability to contribute to strategic discussions
- Commitment to good governance and charitable purpose
Board Membership
The Board consists of five Trustees. Appointment to the SSHT board is for an initial term of two years, to allow the new board member to confirm their fit to the board. The Board may then offer a second term of up to four years. The maximum time any board member may serve on the board consecutively is ten years.
The Board comprises of Sutherland family members and representatives from legal, medical, and accounting backgrounds.
Time Commitment
This is an unpaid Governance role.
The Board meets 4–5 times per year (usually in Wellington), with papers circulated in advance. Additional time for preparation and occasional sub‑committee or ad‑hoc discussions may be required.
Application Closing Date: 5pm, 30 April 2026
For more information please email: office@sutherlandselfhelptrust.org.nz
Please apply online at: https://selfhelp.formstack.com/forms/trustee_application_form
About the Sutherland Self Help Trust
Founded in 1941, the Sutherland Self Help Trust was established by the Sutherland Family, who pioneered New Zealand’s first chain of grocery stores, The Self Help Co-op.
The pioneering spirit of The Sutherland Family saw them reject traditional trading methods and opt instead for a business model that would support the community.
This included setting up The Sutherland Self Help Trust to assist registered charities in New Zealand through Grants in order to deliver services to support the community.
Trust Values
- Create Tūrangawaewae: We help others create places where people feel especially empowered and connected. These are their foundations, their places in the world, their homes.
- Manaakitanga: We uphold people’s dignity and give of ourselves to others.
- Promote Self Help: We support groups that are resourceful and efficient and will provide lasting benefits to the community.