General Manager - Policy & Advocacy

Overview Champion Growers. Influence Policy. Inspire the Future of Horticulture. General Manager – Policy & Advocacy Location: Wellington • Employment Type: Full-time • Reports to: Chief Executive About Us Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) represents over 4,300 commercial fruit and vegetable growers and advocates for a thriving, sustainable horticulture industry in New Zealand. Our vision is to create an enduring environment where growers thrive and healthy food is available for all, now and forever. Our values are Courageous by nature, Collaborative for impact, and Credible through action. About the Role We are seeking an experienced and influential leader to join our executive team as General Manager – Policy & Advocacy. This role shapes HortNZ’s policy agenda, drives advocacy strategies, and represents the horticulture sector at the highest levels of government and industry. A key part of the role is building and maintaining strong relationships with growers, ensuring their voices are heard and reflected in policy development and advocacy efforts. You will act as a trusted partner to growers, engaging with them on critical issues and championing their interests in regional and national forums. Key Responsibilities Lead and inspire a high-performing team across policy and biosecurity portfolios. Develop and implement strategies that influence policy and deliver positive outcomes for growers. Represent HortNZ in national forums and maintain strong relationships with government, industry bodies, and growers. Provide strategic advice to the CEO and Board on emerging policy issues, risks, and opportunities. Shape and champion HortNZ’s policy and advocacy agenda. Oversee policy development, research, and strategic engagement with government and growers. Lead environmental and sustainability strategies aligned with legislation and best practice. Build trusted relationships across government, industry, community sectors, and grower networks. Foster collaboration and innovation within the team and across the organisation. About You / Qualifications You are an engaged and passionate people leader, a strategic thinker and skilled influencer with a deep understanding of government processes and policy development. You thrive in complex stakeholder environments and have a proven ability to deliver results at a senior level. Experience leading teams and operating at an executive level. Extensive experience in policy leadership, advocacy, or government relations. Strong knowledge of legislative frameworks and environmental sustainability. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills, including experience engaging with growers or primary industry stakeholders. A tertiary qualification in public policy, planning, law, environmental science, or a related discipline. Why Join Us? Opportunity to influence policy outcomes at a strategic level. Work with a passionate team committed to shaping the future of horticulture. Flexible working arrangements and professional development opportunities. Competitive remuneration and benefits package. For questions regarding this role, please contact the Chief Executive Office at HortNZ. #J-18808-Ljbffr