Manahautū - General Manager - Te Rūnanga o Waihao

Type: Permanent

Location:

Description

Strategic | Culturally Grounded | Relationship-Led | Operationally Strong

We’re on a mission – and we need a gamechanger

At Te Rūnanga o Waihao, we’re boldly reimagining how we serve our people and our place. Following a purposeful review of our governance and operations, we’re rebuilding with intention – strengthening our foundations so that mana whenua leadership, kaupapa Māori values, and intergenerational wellbeing are at the heart of all we do.

We are setting a new course. One grounded in rakatirataka, sustained by tikanga, and powered by whakapapa. We are enabling place-based strategies and long-term solutions that uplift our rūnanga, hapū and whānau – now and into the future.

We are now seeking an exceptional Manahautū – General Manager to lead the Rūnanga’s strategy, direct day-to-day operations, and work alongside our Board, kaimahi, whānau and partners to turn vision into action.

The Manahautū is the engine room of Te Rūnanga o Waihao. This role brings together strategic leadership, operational delivery, governance support, financial oversight, people leadership and trusted relationship management. You will support and report to the Inc Soc Board, manage a small team, and be a visible and credible presence for whānau, the Marae, partners and external stakeholders.

Based full-time in Waimate, you will keep the waka moving: implementing strategic priorities, strengthening systems and processes, supporting good governance, managing budgets and compliance, and ensuring Waihao’s activities remain aligned to our cultural values and long-term aspirations.

Accross this role, we are looking for someone who:

• Leads with humility, integrity, courage and care
• Understands and champions tikanga, mana whenua leadership and Māori aspirations
• Can translate strategy into practical action and measurable outcomes
• Has proven experience in strategic leadership, operations and people management
• Brings strong financial literacy, budget management and sound business acumen
• Can work confidently with Boards, prepare high-quality papers, and provide trusted strategic advice
• Builds strong, enduring relationships with whānau, Te Tiriti partners, stakeholders and community networks
• Is comfortable being visible in the takiwā and present at the Marae when appropriate
• Communicates clearly, both written and verbal, and can engage effectively accross diverse audiences
• Is proactive, resiliant, adaptable and motivated by legacy, whenua and kaupapa

Why Waihao?

This is a rare opportunity to join a grounded, whānau-driven organisation at a transformative moment. You will help shape the next phase of Te Rūnanga o Waihao, strengthening our operations and partnerships while supporting place-based strategies and long-term solutions that uplift our rūnanga, hapū and whānau.

We are not just hiring a General Manager. We are investing in a leader who will help carry our kaupapa forward for generations to come.

Location: Waimate, full-time

Applications close: 5pm, 20 August 2026

Please note that applications will be considered throughout the advertising period, so we encourage anyone interested to apply early rather than waiting until the closing date.

How to apply: Send your CV and cover letter to [email protected]

For a confidential kōrero: Contact Karyn Reid 021 132 2225

Let’s build something enduring – together.

Te Rūnanga o Waihao – Mo tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei.