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Posted 23 July, 2026

Associate Director - Governance Development Programme

Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu
Wellington, WGN, NZ Full Time
Reference: da42e541bb5beaf5

Job Description

Associate Director - Governance Development Programme Te Rūnanga o Waihao invites expressions of interest from whānau who are seeking to grow their governance capability and contribute to the long‑term wellbeing and leadership of our people. This Associate Director Governance Development Programme is an 18‑month, learning‑focused pathway designed to support whānau who are interested in governance, leadership, and service and who wish to deepen their understanding in a supported, values‑based environment. This is not a paid governance position, nor does it guarantee future board appointments. It is a structured development opportunity grounded in whanaukataka, reflection, and practical exposure. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute meaningfully to Board hui and wānanga, with attendance primarily in person and occasional participation via online platforms. Duration: 18 months The programme provides participants with: Structured governance learning Mentoring and engagement with experienced governance leaders Observation of governance processes across Rūnaka entities Time, space, and support to develop confidence and capability The programme is intentionally focused on learning and readiness, rather than remuneration for attendance. What the Programme Includes Study Grant Participants will receive a tax‑free study grant of $1,000 per quarter (up to $6,000 over 18 months) to support approved governance, finance, or leadership learning aligned with the programme. Participants will be supported through structured engagement, including: Bi‑monthly meetings with the Rūnanga Chair to explore governance practice, leadership responsibilities, and reflection Quarterly engagement with the Holdings Board Chair , focused on operational, financial, and strategic governance Quarterly engagement with a TRoNT representative , supporting broader understanding of governance across organisational and Treaty‑based contexts Participants will observe governance in action, including: Incorporated Society Board meetings (observer role) Annual General Meeting (AGM) Optional observation of a TRoNT meeting Additional exposure to hapū, iwi, local and central government engagements Whānau and hapū events and activities These opportunities are observational only and carry confidentiality expectations. Formal Governance Training (Funded) Participants will complete the following Institute of Directors (IoD) courses: IoD Governance Essentials IoD Finance for Directors IoD Audit & Risk Who This Programme Is For This programme is suitable for whānau who: Are interested in governance as service Are committed to learning, reflection, and growth Can make time over an 18‑month period Understand the importance of confidentiality, collective responsibility, and tikanga‑aligned conduct Are exploring governance pathways now or in the future Formal governance experience is not required. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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