Strategy, Performance and Insights Manager

• A well-respected NGO, backed by collaborative sector partners
• An influential, high-impact senior leadership position
• Support strategic direction and make a real difference for those in need

About the role

DCM (Downtown Community Ministry) is a trusted, values-led organisation and Wellington’s leading social service focused on supporting people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness to reach their housing and social aspirations.      

Reporting to and working closely with the Manahautū (Chief Executive), and as a member of the Kaiarataki Kāhui (Senior Leadership Team), you’ll play a pivotal role in strengthening DCM’s strategic direction, organisational performance, partnerships, and sector positioning.

We are seeking a strong, mana-enhancing Kaiārataki (senior leader) who brings strategic clarity by connecting data, evidence and insights with DCM’s long-term priorities. You’ll apply a strategic and evaluative lens to understand what is working, identify opportunities for improvement, and use data, insights and sector knowledge to strengthen social services best practice and support future-focused, evidence-based decision-making.          

You’ll analyse performance, identify trends and translate evidence into insights that guide the Manahautū in decision-making, continuous improvement and organisational growth. Through proactive scanning of the funding and social sector landscape, you’ll identify opportunities that strengthen partnerships, funding pathways and DCM’s sustainability.

This is a high-impact role, where you’ll strengthen DCM’s influence and impact through evidence, insights and collaboration. You’ll represent DCM externally, building trusted relationships with sector partners, funders, government and media to advocate for DCM’s kaupapa and influence positive change.

What you’ll do  

• Shape DCM’s approach to evaluation and performance improvement, observing DCM’s practice and operations, identifying opportunities for improvement, and developing systems that support continuous improvement and better outcomes
• Lead DCM’s strategic performance, data and insights approach, using evidence and analysis to measure impact, identify trends and inform decision-making
• Provide strategic advice and insights, equipping leaders with the evidence and narratives needed to influence funders, government and sector partners
• Oversee DCM’s funding, contracts and partnerships, ensure funding sustainability, financial performance, contractual obligations, reporting and risks are effectively managed
• Identify and advance strategic opportunities, including funding pathways, partnerships and sector collaborations and initiatives
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with funders, government agencies, elected representatives and sector partners, positioning DCM as a trusted and collaborative partner
• Lead, coach, support and inspire a dedicated team, build team capability and enable high performance, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement
• Represent DCM externally, participating in sector forums, engagements and local & international conferences to advocate for DCM’s Kaupapa and strengthen its profile
• Act as the Manahautū’s delegate when required, providing leadership continuity and supporting organisational priorities during periods of CE absence.

What we’re looking for

• Senior leadership experience, ideally within the social services, NGO, community purpose-driven sectors
• Experience contributing to organisational strategy, performance improvement and evidence-based decision-making
• Proven experience in contract management, strategic/accountability reporting, and risk management
• Systems thinking mindset, with a focus on best practice, continuous improvement and sustainable impact
• Strong data analytical skills, with ability to interpret data and translate information into meaningful insights
• Excellent communication skills, able to turn evidence and insights into clear, compelling narratives
• Ability to inspire teams, build capability and foster a collaborative culture
• A connector, networker, collaborator, with success in building trusted relationships with funders, government agencies, sector partners and communities
• Confident communicator with experience in public engagement and representation
• Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and embedding bicultural practice
• Commitment to DCM’s values and kaupapa, with a passion for creating lasting change, empathy for communities experiencing vulnerability, and a belief in housing, connection and dignity for all
• Comfortable using CRM systems, data management tools, MS Office Suite (Access, Excel) and Power BI (ideally).

Why join DCM?

DCM provides wraparound support that helps individuals secure and sustain housing, improve wellbeing, and reconnect with whānau and community. Guided by the principles of te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to upholding mana, DCM works collaboratively across sectors to create lasting, systemic change and build stronger, more connected communities.       

Supported by a collaborative Manahautū, Kaiarataki Kāhui and sector partners, you’ll help strengthen DCM’s influence, advance strategic priorities, and improve outcomes for Wellington’s most marginalised communities.

This is a permanent, full-time position (38.75 hours) based in Wellington Central.

How to apply

Send your CV and a cover letter to Ngan Nguyen by Sunday 23 August 2026.

A position description is available on our website at mclaren.co.nz or call us on 04 4991069.

View the position description by copying this link into your browser: https://mclaren.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/DCM-PD-Strategy-Performance-Insights-Manager-July-2026.pdf