General Manager

Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers; Dunedin; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Life Matters Suicide Prevention Trust in Dunedin seeks an exceptional General Manager to lead the organisation into its next chapter. You’ll drive strategic impact, financial sustainability and stakeholder partnerships while supporting staff and frontline services in the community.

The role requires a collaborative leader with experience in peer-led approaches and not-for-profit governance to strengthen services and outcomes across Dunedin and the wider region.

Qualifications

• Proven senior leadership or general management experience.
• Strong financial stewardship including budgeting and reporting.
• Experience securing funding and developing sustainable income streams.
• Excellent relationship-building with funders, partners and boards.
• Knowledge of not-for-profit governance and strategy development.
• Collaborative leadership style with commitment to equity and lived experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing team of staff and volunteers.
• Drive financial performance, budgeting, reporting and sustainability.
• Develop funded partnerships and sponsorships to strengthen long-term income.
• Engage with funders, government agencies and community partners.
• Work with the Board to set strategy and governance for impact.

Skills

Leadership

Financial acumen

Fundraising

Stakeholder engagement

Governance

Collaboration

Community partnerships

Job description

ife Matters Suicide Prevention Trust supports people experiencing mental health challenges, addiction, distress and isolation through peer‑led services, advocacy, education and community connection. Guided by lived experience, human rights, equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the organisation is dedicated to strengthening wellbeing and creating hope across our community.

We're seeking an exceptional General Manager to lead the organisation into its next chapter.

This is a highly visible, hands‑on leadership role where no two days are the same. Reporting directly to the Board Chair, you’ll lead a committed team, drive financial sustainability, build strong stakeholder relationships and ensure Life Matters continues to deliver meaningful impact across Dunedin and the wider region. You’ll be just as comfortable meeting with funders and corporate sponsors as you are rolling up your sleeves to support staff and frontline operations when needed.

Leadership & People

• Lead, develop and support a high‑performing team of staff and volunteers.
• Foster a positive, safe and inclusive workplace culture.
• Provide practical support and step in when required to assist peer led frontline services.
• Champion the values, peer support philosophy and lived‑experience principles of Life Matters.

Financial Sustainability

• Manage organisational budgets, financial performance and reporting.
• Drive fundraising, sponsorship and funding initiatives.
• Build strong relationships with funders and corporate partners.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen the Trust's long‑term financial resilience.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as an advocate for Life Matters across the community.
• Develop strong partnerships with funders, sponsors, government agencies, NGOs and community organisations.
• Enhance the organisation's profile and reputation across the region.

Governance & Strategy

• Work closely with the Board Chair and Board to deliver organisational goals.
• Provide regular reporting, advice and strategic insight.
• Lead initiatives that strengthen services, systems and community impact.

You'll bring:

• Proven senior leadership or general management experience.
• An understanding of peer led systems.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, reporting and funding management.
• Success securing funding, sponsorships and developing sustainable income streams.
• Exceptional relationship‑building and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience working with boards, community organisations, funders or the not‑for‑profit sector.
• A collaborative leadership style and a genuine commitment to people and community outcomes.

If you're an experienced leader who combines commercial capability with a passion for creating positive social impact.

To find out more or have a confidential chat you can contact Daniel Harmes on 02•••••814

Applications will be assessed on an ongoing basis, and the advert may close early if a suitable candidate is identified.

Applicants must have a valid work visa, permanent residency or NZ citizenship to be considered.

Platinum Recruitment is proud to be a member of Te Uru Tāngata Centre for Workplace Inclusion and believes in equal opportunities for all. We actively promote diversity and inclusion in all our recruitment processes.