EMPLOYERS AND MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION - HEAD OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - AUCKLAND, NZ (HYBRID)

Overview

The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) is New Zealand's largest business association, supporting businesses through advocacy, legal and employment relations advice, HR and health & safety consulting, training, and other services. For over 130 years, EMA has provided practical support and reliable employer advice, access to high quality training solutions, and a wide variety of events and conferences. Our purpose is to lift the prosperity of New Zealand through better business. Our team are insightful, purpose-driven thinkers who keep pace with New Zealand and global best business practices.

About The Role

As Head of Professional Services, you will be a key member of EMA’s Senior Leadership Team, responsible for leading and evolving our Legal, Employment Relations, Health & Safety Consulting, and HR Services functions. This role delivers high-impact, client-focused services that support members’ business success while ensuring compliance with legal and industry standards.

The Head of Professional Services requires a commercially astute leader with deep expertise in employment law or employment relations and strong stakeholder engagement. The successful candidate will ideally also serve as General Counsel, providing legal oversight and technical support to our Consultants and Advocacy team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead multidisciplinary teams across Legal, Employment Relations, Health & Safety, HR, and Advanced Manufacturing
• Develop service strategies to align with EMA’s vision and member needs
• Champion best practice in legal advice, risk management, and industry standards
• Build and maintain strong relationships with members, clients, network partners, and key stakeholders
• Drive business development, financial oversight, and practice management across service lines
• Contribute to EMA’s workplace relations and employment Advocacy program
• Support the Senior Leadership Team and Board of Directors with expert advice and strategic insight

About You

You are an experienced leader with a background in professional services, legal, or employment relations within complex organisational environments.

You Will Have

Working at EMA

At EMA, we are committed to helping member businesses succeed through support, advice, learning, and advocacy. We offer flexible working options and opportunities to make a difference for businesses and communities in New Zealand.

How To Apply

Kerridge & Partners is managing the appointment process for this role. To apply or express interest, please contact Sam Webster at or call .

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