Job Description

Lead with Purpose. Create Meaningful Change.

Wellington Sexual Abuse HELP is seeking an experienced, values-driven Chief Executive (Manahautū) to lead one of Wellington's most respected specialist support organisations.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a strategic and compassionate leader who is passionate about community wellbeing, advocacy, organisational leadership, and creating safe, sustainable services for survivors of sexual violence.

Wellington HELP supports individuals, whānau, and communities affected by sexual violence to move from surviving to thriving.

As Chief Executive, you will provide strategic, operational, financial, and people leadership across the organisation while working closely with the Board, stakeholders, funders, staff, and the wider community.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Board, the Chief Executive will be responsible for:

  • Leading the strategic direction and operational performance of the organisation
  • Providing strong organisational, financial, and people leadership
  • Ensuring the sustainability and growth of Wellington HELP's services
  • Building strong stakeholder, community, iwi, and sector relationships
  • Supporting and empowering a highly committed workforce
  • Ensuring strong governance, compliance, and risk management practices
  • Leading advocacy, public engagement, and organisational visibility
  • Driving a positive, collaborative, and values-based culture

This role requires a leader who can confidently move between strategic leadership and operational delivery while maintaining a strong people-first approach.

About You

We are seeking an experienced senior leader who brings:

  • Proven senior leadership experience within the community, NGO, public, or not-for-profit sectors
  • Strong financial and operational management capability
  • Experience leading people, culture, and organisational development
  • Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills
  • Strong governance and Board reporting experience
  • Exceptional communication and advocacy capability
  • High levels of emotional intelligence, resilience, and integrity
  • Experience managing organisational change and growth
  • An understanding of trauma-informed and culturally responsive leadership approaches

You will also demonstrate:

  • Strategic thinking and sound decision-making
  • Strong commercial and organisational awareness
  • A collaborative and empowering leadership style
  • Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community outcomes
  • Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its contemporary application

What Wellington HELP offers

  • A deeply meaningful leadership opportunity
  • The chance to make a genuine impact within the Wellington community
  • A highly committed and values-driven team
  • An organisation with strong community reputation and purpose
  • The opportunity to lead organisational growth and innovation
  • Supportive governance and stakeholder relationships

You are welcome to call Suzanne on 027 227 6447 for an initial confidential conversation before making the decision to apply.

Organisation

Wellington Sexual Abuse HELP

Job Summary

The Chief Executive – Manahautū provides strategic and operational leadership for Wellington Sexual Abuse HELP Foundation, ensuring the delivery of sustainable, high-quality survivor support services

How to apply

If you are an experienced and compassionate leader ready to make a meaningful contribution within a purpose-led organisation, we would welcome your application.

Confidential enquiries and applications are welcome.

Applications should include:

  • A current CV
  • Cover letter outlining your leadership experience and interest in the role

Apply online now to become part of an organisation committed to supporting survivors, strengthening communities, and creating lasting positive change.

You are welcome to call Suzanne on 027 227 6447 for an initial confidential conversation before making the decision to apply.

Sector

Not for Profit

Job Description (PDF)