Chief Executive Kaihautū
A rewarding role, backed by a supportive Board & collaborative sector partners
High-impact leadership position; make a real difference for those most in need
Drive lasting change and build stronger, connected, resilient communities
About the Role
Tira Tūhāhā Prison Chaplaincy Aotearoa (TTPCA) is a registered charity that provides religious and spiritual support services to prisons and correctional facilities under contract with the Department of Corrections and Serco (Contracting Agency). TTPCA delivers a range of services which involve the employment, placement and management of over 40 professional chaplains; and the coordination of around 500 committed faith-based volunteers in New Zealand’s 18 prisons and correctional facilities across Aotearoa NZ.
TTPCA is to be a source of hope that transforms lives, ensuring every prisoner has the opportunity to enrich their spiritual and religious life.
We are seeking a Chief Executive Kaihautū who is a strong, visible, and values-led leader, bringing strategic clarity, a mana-enhancing approach to service delivery, and exceptional leadership capability. You will work closely with the Board to lead the organisation’s strategic direction and oversee TTPCA’s national operations, services and performance.
Together with the Board of TTPCA, the Chief Executive will be responsible for the stewardship of TTPCA’s service contracts, chaplaincy services, staff and volunteers across Aotearoa. Acting as an ambassador for the organisation, you will strengthen relationships with churches, faith groups, iwi, government agencies and sector partners, while safeguarding TTPCA’s reputation, credibility and long-term sustainability.
What we’re looking for:
Proven experience at senior management level, including strategic planning, financial management and human resources management
Experience of working with Boards
Strong people leadership skills with the ability to maintain a highly engaged and capable workforce
An active Christian belonging to a recognised Christian Church and sound understanding of the Church and other faith-based communities
A connector and collaborator with a track record of success in building and maintaining exceptional relationships across Board, sector and community stakeholders
Strong experience in contract negotiations, management and reporting
Understanding the culture and challenges of the not-for-profit and volunteer sectors
Confident communicator with media and public engagement experience
Knowledge of government systems, funding environments, and sector dynamics
Commitment to te Tiriti o Waitangi and embedding bi-cultural practice throughout an organisation
Empathy for vulnerable communities, with a strong commitment to upholding dignity for all and a belief in the transformative power of hope
Why join TTPCA?
This is a rewarding leadership role, strategic, visible, and hands-on, with the opportunity to create a meaningful impact across the faith and criminal justice sectors.
You’ll lead a passionate and dedicated team united by a vision to support individuals and whānau, delivering inclusive and effective services that create real pathways to spiritual and religious wellbeing for many of the most vulnerable people in our society. With the backing of a supportive Board and collaborative sector partners, you’ll help expand TTPCA’s influence, drive lasting transformation, and develop a stronger network of care for the men and women in prison and their supporting communities.
This permanent full-time position is based at TTPCA’s national office on Willis Street, Wellington Central. TTPCA offers a competitive salary, five weeks annual leave, car park, laptop and phone, and Air NZ Koru membership.
How to Apply
Follow the link to McLaren Recruitment to view the position description and submit your application. Please attention your CV and a cover letter to Ngan Nguyen by Sunday 15 February 2026.
If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Ngan at 04 499 1069.
Once applications have closed, we will commence the shortlisting process, which can take up to two weeks. McLaren Recruitment will be in touch with you regarding your application during this time.
