Chief Executive – Conservation Volunteers New Zealand – Auckland, Wellington Or Christchurch

Lead a national entity for conservation and community impactDrive strategic growth and innovationAuckland, Wellington or Christchurch-basedConservation Volunteers New Zealand (CVNZ) connects people with nature to create an Aotearoa where people and the environment flourish together.

Since 2006, we have engaged thousands of volunteers annually to plant and care for native trees, protect threatened species, restore ecosystems, and inspire guardianship of our unique natural heritage.CVNZ is entering an exciting new era — and are seeking a strategic, visionary, and commercially astute Chief Executive to lead us into the future.About the RoleReporting to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive will lead a committed team of around 40–50 staff and a nationwide network of volunteers.

You'll oversee a diverse portfolio of programmes across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and the West Coast, including flagship projects like the Papakura Stream Restoration, Belmont Regional Park, and the Otakaro Avon River Corridor.Your leadership will be pivotal in implementing our strategic plan, securing sustainable revenue streams, and embedding the organisation's independence while preserving our collaborative and passionate culture.

You will build and nurture partnerships with government agencies, iwi and hapu, corporate supporters, funders, and community groups.

Advocacy and influence will be key as you represent CVNZ nationally, ensuring conservation remains a priority across the political spectrum.Key Priorities for Your First 12 MonthsDeliver the annual business plan while maintaining a sound and sustainable budget.Develop and implement a diversified revenue strategy, including philanthropy, corporate partnerships, and new commercial opportunities.Strengthen CVNZ's brand and storytelling to engage new audiences and inspire action for nature.Continue embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and matauranga Maori into our work.Lead with transparency, integrity, and inclusiveness, inspiring a motivated and high-performing team.About YouWe are seeking an experienced leader who combines strategic vision with the ability to get things done.

You'll bring a track record in leading organisations through growth or transformation, ideally in the conservation, environmental, community, or not-for-profit sectors.You will have : Proven success in revenue generation and funding diversification.Strong stakeholder engagement skills — from boardrooms to community planting days.Political awareness and the ability to influence decision-makers at all levels.Commercial acumen and the creativity to explore new business opportunities.Deep commitment to environmental sustainability, biodiversity, and community wellbeing.Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and experience partnering with Maori.This is more than a leadership role — it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact for the environment and communities of Aotearoa.

You will lead an organisation with a proud track record, a passionate team, and the freedom to shape our next chapter as an independent New Zealand charity.If you are ready to lead an organisation that combines environmental action, community engagement, and real impact — we would love to hear from you.SWR Executive Search have been appointed as exclusive search partners.

Please email your CV to

• or
• quoting reference no. 3956256.For further information in strictest confidence, please contact Graeme Sandri on 029 248 8502 or Tim Rosenberg on 029 273 2264.Applications close Friday 19th September 2025.You must be a New Zealand citizen or have full visa status to currently work in New Zealand.

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