Events Coordinator & Office Administrator

• Play a central role in delivering events for one of NZ’s leading think tanks
• Varied, hands-on role across events, communications, and office operations
• Join a small, high-performing team in Wellington’s CBD

About The New Zealand Initiative

The New Zealand Initiative is the country’s leading independent think tank, dedicated to delivering rigorous research and policy ideas that help New Zealand thrive. Based in Wellington’s CBD, they work alongside some of New Zealand’s most respected business leaders, academics, and public servants — and their events are where those conversations happen. Their work matters, their members are engaged, and the people who make it all run are genuinely valued.

About the role

This is not a “keep-the-lights-on” role – it’s a career-defining opportunity for the right person.

As Events Coordinator & Office Administrator, you’ll be the operational heartbeat of the Initiative. You’ll sit at the centre of the organisation’s activity – planning and coordinating a dynamic events programme, producing the weekly newsletter, supporting members, and ensuring the office runs seamlessly day to day.

You’ll be the first voice members hear, the person behind polished invitations and communications, and the one making sure everything comes together exactly as it should. It’s a role with real ownership, variety, and visibility.

What you’ll do

You’ll take ownership across three key areas:

Events coordination

• Plan and deliver a diverse events programme including member briefings, webinars, conferences, and social functions
• Manage end-to-end logistics – venues, catering, AV, run sheets, and on-the-day delivery
• Draft invitations and manage event communications, RSVPs, and attendee experience
• Liaise with suppliers, speakers, and internal stakeholders

Office operations & administration

• Keep the office running smoothly day-to-day
• Coordinate travel, manage supplies, and maintain systems and records
• Provide administrative support to researchers and leadership
• Act as the first point of contact for members and external stakeholders

Communications & database management

• Produce the weekly newsletter to a 10,000-strong audience
• Maintain and update the membership database with a high level of accuracy
• Support website updates and manage content via the CMS
• Create and format collateral using Adobe Creative Suite

What we’re looking for

You’ll bring around 3–5 years’ experience in a similar role, with the confidence and maturity to manage multiple priorities and operate independently.

You’ll also have:

• Strong events coordination experience with excellent attention to detail
• Advanced Microsoft Word skills and solid PowerPoint capability
• Experience using Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop)
• Confidence working with databases or CRM systems
• Excellent written communication skills and a sharp eye for detail
• A warm, professional approach and confidence engaging with senior stakeholders
• Strong organisation and time management skills, with the ability to juggle competing demands

Experience in a membership-based, not-for-profit, or policy environment will be advantageous.

Why join the Initiative?

You’ll enjoy a role with real breadth and variety, working as part of a small, highly capable team that takes quiet pride in doing meaningful work well. It’s a high-trust, agile environment where your ideas are encouraged, your contribution is visible, and you’ll have genuine ownership of your work.

You’ll also benefit from exposure to New Zealand’s most engaged and senior business community, and the opportunity to play a central role in the events and operations that bring important conversations to life.

This is a full-time, permanent position based on Brandon Street in Wellington’s CBD. Benefits include five weeks’ annual leave, newspaper subscriptions, and trauma, income protection and health insurance.

To find out more about the New Zealand Initiative and the events they run, please visit their website https://www.nzinitiative.org.nz/events/

How to apply

Send your CV and a cover letter to Kirsty McLaren by Sunday 3 May 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.

View the position description by copying this link into your browser: https://mclaren.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/NZ-Initiative-PD-Events-Coordinator-Office-Admin-16.4.26.pdf