Education Manager

• Lead education programmes that make a difference across rural Tairāwhiti
• Provide educational leadership and develop the capability of a committed team
• Shape responsive, high-quality learning that reflects community aspirations

Mō te tūranga – About the role

Tairāwhiti REAP plays a vital role in supporting education and community development across the region, from Pōtaka in the north to Kotemaori in the south. As a locally led, not-for-profit organisation, Tairāwhiti REAP delivers lifelong learning opportunities that respond to the aspirations and needs of its communities.

Tairāwhiti REAP has recently taken the opportunity to reset and reframe the Education Manager role, with a clearer focus on educational leadership, programme quality, people capability and strong delivery.

Reporting to the Tumuaki | Chief Executive, the Education Manager provides strategic and operational leadership across Tairāwhiti REAP’s education portfolio. You’ll lead the planning, delivery, evaluation and continuous improvement of education programmes, ensuring they achieve strong outcomes for learners while meeting contractual obligations, educational standards and organisational priorities.

This is a broad leadership role combining educational quality, programme and contract management, people leadership, financial oversight and stakeholder engagement. You’ll work closely with educators and community partners to ensure programmes remain relevant, culturally responsive and financially sustainable, while continuing to strengthen learner participation and achievement.

Ngā kawenga matua – What you’ll do

• Lead the planning, implementation and ongoing development of education programmes and learning pathways
• Champion learner-centred practice, educational quality and continuous improvement
• Lead delivery of funded education contracts, ensuring KPIs, reporting and compliance requirements are met
• Manage programme budgets, resources, reporting, evidence collection and audit requirements
• Lead, coach and develop education staff, tutors, contractors and volunteers
• Monitor learner outcomes and use data and feedback to inform programme improvement
• Build strong partnerships with schools, ECE providers, tertiary providers, iwi, hapū, government agencies, employers and community organisations
• Identify opportunities for innovative education programmes that respond to community aspirations and needs
• Contribute to organisational planning and the ongoing sustainability of Tairāwhiti REAP

He kōrero mōu – About you

You’ll be an experienced education leader who combines a strong understanding of learning and programme delivery with the practical management capability needed to turn good ideas into successful outcomes.

You will bring:

• At least five years’ experience in educational leadership, or equivalent relevant experience
• A strong understanding of adult and community education and the wider New Zealand education environment
• Experience leading education programmes and supporting quality learner outcomes
• Strong people leadership, coaching and staff development capability
• Experience managing funded contracts, including KPIs, reporting, compliance and accountability
• Sound budget management, planning and resource management skills
• Strong relationship management skills and the ability to work effectively across diverse communities and stakeholders
• An understanding of Māori learner success and a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
• Strong organisational, problem-solving and communication skills
• A relevant tertiary qualification in education, adult education, teaching or educational leadership, or equivalent experience
• A full New Zealand driver licence

He aha ai – Why join Tairāwhiti REAP?

This is an opportunity to have genuine influence over the quality and direction of lifelong learning across rural Tairāwhiti. You’ll have scope to strengthen programmes, develop people and systems, and work alongside communities and partners to ensure education responds to local aspirations.

You’ll join a small team committed to education, connection and community, with the opportunity to bring both leadership and fresh thinking to how programmes are developed and delivered.

This is a permanent, full-time position. Gisborne is the preferred base for the role, however candidates based elsewhere within the Tairāwhiti region may also be considered. Regular travel throughout the region will be required.

To find out more about Tairawhiti REAP visit their website at https://www.tairawhitireap.org.nz/

How to apply

Send your CV and a cover letter to Kirsty McLaren by Sunday 6 September 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/Tairawhiti-REAP-PD-Education-Manager-12.8.26.pdf