Sport Manager (Central Region)

Lead Sport. Grow Capability. Strengthen Our Clubs.

Why This Role Matters

Surf Life Saving New Zealand plays a vital role in keeping our communities safe, on the beach and beyond. For us, sport is more than competition; it builds skills, confidence, and capability that directly contribute to saving lives.

We’re looking for a Regional Sports Manager to lead and grow sport in the Central Region (Wellington, Taranaki & Hawkes Bay) - supporting clubs, developing people and delivering high-quality programmes and events. This is a role for someone who can think strategically, lead with purpose, and work alongside passionate volunteers to strengthen sport as a cornerstone of Surf Life Saving.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll take the lead in shaping and delivering sport, working closely with clubs, volunteers and national teams. This includes:

• Leading the planning and delivery of sport programmes, pathways, and events
• Supporting clubs to build capability across athletes, coaches, and officials
• Strengthening alignment between local delivery and national strategy
• Providing practical, hands-on support to ensure events are safe, well-run and consistent
• Building strong relationships with clubs, committees and stakeholders
• Managing sport-related budgets, resources and equipment
• Identifying opportunities to grow participation across all levels, from juniors through to masters

At its heart, this role is about enabling others - helping clubs and people succeed.

What You’ll Bring

You’re someone who combines leadership with action. You know how to bring people together and get things done.

• Experience in sport leadership, development or event delivery
• Strong understanding of surf lifesaving and/or sport environments
• Ability to build trusted relationships with volunteers and stakeholders
• Confidence leading programmes and supporting others to grow
• A practical, solutions-focused mindset - you’re happy to roll up your sleeves
• Strong organisation, communication and planning skills
• The ability to balance big-picture thinking with attention to detail

Why Join Us

At Surf Life Saving NZ Clubs Are At The Heart Of Everything We Do. We’re a Values-driven Organisation Guided By Our Kawa Tataki

• Collaboration – we work together to achieve more
• Integrity – we do what’s right
• Respect – we value people and perspectives
• Wellbeing – we care for each other
• Fun – we celebrate what we do

You’ll be part of a team that is deeply connected to its purpose - supporting our volunteers, strengthening our clubs, and working towards our vision of zero preventable drownings.

The role comes with a competitive salary and additional benefits such as a flexible working environment, vehicle, mobile phone & plan, life insurance and counselling & wellbeing support for staff & families.

If you would like more information, please contact Louise Calvert 027 655 5746.

Application Link : https://careers.surflifesaving.org.nz/jobs/7661347-slsnz-regional-sports-manager