High Performance Director

About Canoe Racing New Zealand (CRNZ)

Canoe Racing New Zealand (CRNZ) is the national sporting organisation responsible for the promotion, advancement, and management of the kayaking and canoeing disciplines of Sprint, Marathon, and Ocean Ski in New Zealand. We’re proud of our rich Olympic history and our commitment to developing athletes, coaches, and systems that sustain world‑class performance.

The Opportunity

The High‑Performance Director (HPD) plays a pivotal role in driving CRNZ’s high‑performance strategy and leading the people, systems, and culture that deliver podium success on the world stage. This is a leadership role that combines strategic direction, programme management, and people leadership, guiding athletes, coaches, and performance staff across the national programme and performance pathway.

You’ll lead a talented team and collaborate closely with key partners including High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ), New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC), Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ), and international federations to ensure CRNZ remains one of New Zealand’s most respected and innovative high‑performance environments.

About You

You’ll be an experienced and people‑focused leader with a proven record in high performance sport, either as an athlete, programme leader, coach, or senior manager within a performance environment.

You will bring :

• Experience developing and implementing high performance strategies and systems.
• An understanding of athlete development, coaching, and performance environments.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage budgets, and deliver on strategic goals.
• Excellent communication and relationship building skills, with the ability to influence and align diverse stakeholders.
• Strong organisation and planning skills with excellent attention to detail.
• A passion for athlete wellbeing and sustainable performance.
• Resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continual learning.

Travel Expectations

Some international travel (3–8 weeks per year) will be required to support major competitions, campaigns and training camps.

Why Join CRNZ?

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of one of New Zealand’s most successful Olympic sports, leading a passionate team and world‑class athletes in pursuit of excellence. You’ll work within a collaborative, values‑driven organisation that’s committed to growth, innovation, and legacy.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Strategy / Planning and General Business

Industries

Sports Teams and Clubs, Spectator Sports, and Performing Arts and Spectator Sports

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