General Manager

• Lead the day-to-day operations of a national sporting organisation
• A broad management role with plenty of variety and practical impact
• Help improve systems and services that support speedway across New Zealand

About Speedway New Zealand

Speedway New Zealand Incorporated (SNZ) is the national governing body for speedway, recognised by Sport NZ as a National Sporting Organisation. It supports more than 3,000 members, 23 member tracks and approximately 480 volunteers across the country.

Working with independently operated member tracks, SNZ provides the national coordination, administration and support that helps the sport run effectively. The sport is built on the commitment of its competitors, officials and volunteers.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the General Manager leads SNZ’s daily operations, manages a small office team and works closely with head officials, member tracks and other stakeholders.

This is a broad, hands-on role where you’ll combine management responsibility with practical delivery. Your work will span financial management, licensing, member support, communications, risk and compliance, and coordination of meetings and events. You’ll also support the Board’s work and translate agreed strategic priorities into action.

You’ll enjoy plenty of variety, with priorities changing across the racing season and annual organisational calendar. You’ll keep essential work progressing while identifying ways to improve operations and support the people who make the sport happen.

The role is based at SNZ’s national office in Lower Hutt. It has a general expectation of 45 hours per week, with additional hours as required (e.g. meetings and availability for serious incident response).

What we’re looking for

You’ll be a capable, practical manager who enjoys taking responsibility, working with people and seeing things through. You’ll be comfortable leading a small team while remaining closely involved in the work yourself.

You’ll bring:

• Proven operational and people management experience, with effective delegation and follow-through
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, payroll and audit preparation
• Excellent organisation and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage competing demands
• Clear, confident communication and the ability to build relationships, navigate differing views and have constructive conversations
• An understanding of governance, risk and health and safety, with sound judgement about when to seek specialist advice
• Strong IT skills and an interest in using technology to improve how an organisation works

Experience in sport, motorsport, membership or not-for-profit organisations would be valuable, as would familiarity with incorporated societies and working with volunteers. SNZ is also open to relevant transferable experience, including from managers ready to step into their first General Manager role.

Why join Speedway New Zealand?

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a national sport and see your work make a difference across its community. You’ll work with passionate people and have scope to shape practical improvements that benefit tracks, competitors and volunteers.

The breadth of the role also provides opportunities to build your leadership experience, with professional development supported.

How to apply

Send your CV and a cover letter, addressed to Nikki Walshaw, by Thursday 29th October 2026. 

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

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/Speedway-NZ-PD-GM-6.10.26.pdf