Tumuaki | Community Ministries Manager

• Lead a purpose driven service supporting whānau across Southland
• Inspire and support a committed, values led frontline team
• Balance people leadership, operations, and community impact

About the role

Invercargill Community Ministries provides holistic, wraparound support to individuals and whānau experiencing hardship across Southland. Guided by dignity, compassion, and the Te Whare Tapa Whā model of care, the team responds to urgent needs while supporting long term wellbeing, resilience, and independence.

This is a key leadership role responsible for the day-to-day running of the Community Ministries centre. You’ll lead people, partnerships, and resources to deliver responsive, trauma-informed services aligned with The Salvation Army’s mission of caring for people, transforming lives, and reforming society.

What you’ll do

You’ll take ownership of the overall leadership and performance of the centre, including:

• Providing day-to-day operational leadership, ensuring safe, effective service delivery
• Leading, supporting, and developing a multidisciplinary team in a demanding environment
• Overseeing service quality and ensuring alignment with practice frameworks and contracts
• Managing budgets, funding, and resources to ensure sustainability and accountability
• Building strong relationships with Corps (Church) leadership, iwi, and community partners
• Supporting an integrated, collaborative approach to service delivery and mission

What we’re looking for

You’ll bring a strong mix of leadership capability, sector understanding, and personal alignment to purpose:

• A values driven leader aligned with The Salvation Army’s mission and kaupapa
• Proven experience leading teams, building culture, and supporting staff wellbeing
• Resilience and confidence leading through complexity, change, and competing demands
• Experience in community or social services, with a sound understanding of holistic, trauma-informed practice
• Experience leading or supporting services that work with individuals and whānau experiencing complex needs
• Strong relationship skills, with the ability to build partnerships and influence outcomes
• Financial and operational confidence, including managing budgets and resources
• Cultural competence and a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Why join The Salvation Army?

The Salvation Army is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most established and trusted social service providers. Through its Community Ministries services, it delivers holistic, wraparound support to people and whānau, with a strong focus on dignity, compassion, and long-term outcomes.

This is a rare opportunity to combine meaningful, community focused work with professional challenge and strong organisational support.

This is a permanent, full-time position based in Invercargill.

• Additional week of Salvation Army leave
• Free confidential counselling services to support your wellbeing
• Subsidised flu vaccinations
• Discounted Southern Cross health insurance
• Staff discount card with a range of retailers

The Salvation Army is a worldwide Christian church and social services provider, committed to caring for people, transforming lives, and reforming society. The successful applicant will be able to identify with and support this mission.

How to apply

Apply with your CV and a cover letter, addressed to Kirsty McLaren, by Sunday 14 June 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/CM-Manager-Tumuaki-PD-July-2025.pdf