Strategic IR & Employment Relations Leader

Kumara Vine; Wellington; Hybrid; NZD 166,000 - 248,000; Full time

Job summary

Kumara Vine is seeking a senior leader to head industrial and employment relations in Wellington. This permanent, full-time role leads strategy, negotiations, and policy across the organisation to shape education outcomes.

You will steer collective bargaining, advise on high-risk matters, and build trusted relationships with unions and senior leaders. Applicants should bring NZ employment law knowledge, strategic vision, and proven people leadership.

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in industrial relations or employment relations.
• Extensive experience leading collective bargaining and union negotiations.
• Deep knowledge of New Zealand employment legislation and practical application.
• Proven leadership of teams and capability development.
• Exceptional relationship management and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong written and verbal communication at executive level.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end strategy, preparation, and delivery of collective bargaining negotiations.
• Build and maintain constructive relationships with unions, sector stakeholders, and senior leaders.
• Provide expert advice on complex employment and industrial relations matters.
• Lead resolution of significant employment disputes and high-risk workplace issues.
• Oversee remuneration and reward strategy and frameworks.
• Drive development, review, and implementation of people policies.
• Provide strategic leadership to the team and foster high performance.
• Use data to identify workforce risks and inform decision-making.
• Contribute to strategic priorities through stakeholder engagement and leadership.

Job description

Kumara Vine is seeking a senior leader to head industrial and employment relations in Wellington. This permanent, full-time role leads strategy, negotiations, and policy across the organisation to shape education outcomes.

You will steer collective bargaining, advise on high-risk matters, and build trusted relationships with unions and senior leaders. Applicants should bring NZ employment law knowledge, strategic vision, and proven people leadership.