Posted 16 July, 2026
Social Services Manager
Vibe
Lower Hutt, WGN, NZ
Full Time
Reference: 1daad444ff35838d
Job Description
At Vibe, we believe every young person deserves access to the support they need to thrive. As a Youth One Stop Shop (YOSS), we provide integrated health, social support, youth development and wellbeing services for more than 7,000 young people across Te Awakairangi ki Tai (the Hutt Valley). Our work is grounded in Manaakitanga, Whanaungatanga and Rangatiratanga, and we are committed to creating a community where rangatahi feel connected, supported and empowered. We're looking for an experienced and passionate Social Services Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team and help shape the future of our social services. ABOUT THE ROLE This is an opportunity to lead meaningful work that makes a real difference for young people and whānau. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will provide strategic, operational and professional leadership across Vibe's social services. You will champion high-quality, youth-centred and culturally responsive practice, support service innovation, strengthen workforce capability, and ensure our services continue to meet the changing needs of rangatahi. You will play a key role in: Leading and supporting a diverse team of social service professionals Providing professional and practice leadership across social services Integration across Vibe's health, social service and youth development servicesBuilding strong relationships with iwi, community partners, funders and government agencies Championing youth participation and ensuring rangatahi voices inform service design and improvement Supporting quality assurance, accreditation, continuous improvement and contract performance Contributing to organisational strategy and leadership as a member of the Senior Leadership Team ABOUT YOU You are an experienced leader who is passionate about supporting young people and enabling others to do their best work. You'll bring: A recognised Social Work qualification Current registration with the Social Workers Registration Board and a current Annual Practising Certificate At least 10 years post-qualification social work experience At least 5 years' leadership experience within social services, health, community or youth development settings Experience providing professional supervision, practice leadership and support to staff Strong understanding of youth development, strengths-based practice and culturally responsive service delivery Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and supporting equitable outcomes for rangatahi and whānau Excellent relationship-building, communication and stakeholder engagement skills Experience leading quality improvement, service development or organisational change initiatives HOW WE WORK At Vibe, how we work matters as much as what we do. Our Kia Eke Kia Tau Capability, Competency and Performance Framework supports our people to grow, lead and deliver meaningful impact. We are looking for leaders who role model: Manaakitanga – Care and Support Whanaungatanga – Connection and Belonging Rangatiratanga – Respect and Empowerment and who are committed to strengthening mana through their leadership, relationships and practice. WHY JOIN VIBE? Be part of an innovative and respected Youth One Stop Shop Lead services that make a genuine difference for rangatahi and whānau Join a passionate and values-driven team Contribute to service innovation, integration and growth Play a key leadership role in shaping the future of youth wellbeing services in Te Awakairangi #J-18808-Ljbffr