Lead conservation, community and connection in the heart of the Central Plateau.
Project Tongariro is seeking an experienced and values-led General Manager to guide our operations, people and programmes and help deliver meaningful conservation and community outcomes across Tongariro National Park and the wider Central North Island.
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who can turn strategy into action, support staff and volunteers, manage budgets and programmes, strengthen partnerships, and build trusted relationships with iwi, hapū, funders, councils, landowners and community organisation’s. Based in Tūrangi, or Taupō by agreement.
If you bring at least five years’ experience in operational leadership, programme management, people and volunteer leadership, budgeting and stakeholder engagement and a genuine passion for conservation, we would love to hear from you.
About the role
The General Manager provides operational, strategic, and people leadership to ensure the successful delivery of the organisation's conservation and nature-based programmes. Working closely with the Board, staff, volunteers, funders, iwi, community stakeholders, and partner organisations, the role oversees day-to-day operations and supports the achievement of environmental and community outcomes in line with the Project Tongariro Strategic Plan.
Key responsibilities
Lead day-to-day operations, implement systems and processes, align activities with strategic objectives, and drive continuous improvement
Oversee planning, coordination and delivery of conservation and nature-based programmes, ensuring work is delivered safely, on time and within approved budgets
Lead, mentor and support staff and contractors
Recruit, coordinate, train and retain volunteers and develop volunteer management systems, induction programmes, scheduling processes, training opportunities, health and safety procedures and volunteer recognition initiatives
Build partnerships with schools, community groups and businesses to grow volunteer participation and increase community engagement
Manage budgets, monitor financial performance, oversee reporting obligations and ensure responsible stewardship of organisational resources
Provide internal communication so the Board and staff in different locations receive regular operational updates
Strengthen external communication with members, iwi, councils, DOC, and the wider community so stakeholders clearly understand Project Tongariro's work
Support funding applications, grant management, sponsorship opportunities and strategic partnerships
Build strong relationships with iwi, hapū, councils, landowners, environmental organisations, community groups and funders
About you
Relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience
Current New Zealand driver license
Minimum five years in operational leadership, programme management, staff and volunteer management, budgeting and stakeholder engagement
Knowledge of operational management, financial management, health and safety obligations, volunteer management, and preferably New Zealand conservation and charitable sector knowledge
Passion for conservation, strong leadership, resilience, integrity, adaptability, communication and problem-solving skills
Postgraduate qualification, project management qualification, or health and safety certification (desirable)
About us
Project Tongariro is a community based Not for Profit organisation founded within Tongariro National Park. The organisation's Purpose is to foster community involvement and engagement in the conservation of Tongariro National Park and the Central North Island landscapes. The organisation is guided by values of Kaitiakitanga (strong conservation ethics, a spiritual connection to the whenua and caring about our environment), Maumaharatanga (valuing the tradition of our story and that of others), and Manaakitanga – mahi tahi (valuing working collaboratively with respect, honesty, integrity and aroha). Find out more: www.tongariro.org.nz
If you have any questions, please phone Mark Davies on 027 474 6330
To request a copy of the Role Description, Application Form and Information Pack please email: [email protected]