02nd October, 2026
Good governance matters. It shapes organisations, strengthens communities, and helps build a strong, fair and sustainable Aotearoa.
When you work with us, you help support directors and the wider governance community to be at their best. Through training, resources, events, and thought leadership, we work with more than 10,500 members across New Zealand to make better governance decisions where they matter most.
About the role I Mō te Tūranga
As Principal Advisor - Māori Governance, you will lead the development of the IoD's Māori Governance work programme and help shape how governance capability is strengthened across Māori organisations, boards and communities.
Working within the Governance Leadership Centre, you'll combine governance expertise, Te Ao Māori, tikanga Māori and mātauranga Māori to create thought leadership, practical resources, learning solutions and engagement initiatives that make a meaningful difference.
This is a highly influential and hands-on role where you'll work alongside governors, iwi, Māori organisations, governance experts and thought leaders to identify emerging issues, develop new ideas and translate them into practical outcomes.
What you'll do
- Lead the development and evolution of the IoD's Māori Governance work programme.
- Develop thought leadership, governance insights, practice guides and research that influence governance practice across Aotearoa.
- Build strong relationships with iwi, Māori organisations, governors and governance leaders to inform and shape our work.
- Design and support governance learning experiences, events and capability-building initiatives.
- Provide trusted advice on Māori governance, Te Ao Māori, tikanga Māori and mātauranga Māori.
- Identify emerging governance trends and opportunities and translate them into action through practical tools, events, resources and initiatives.
About you I Mōhou ake You’ll bring: - Strong knowledge of Te Ao Māori, tikanga Māori and mātauranga Māori.
- Experience working within governance, Māori governance, public policy, strategy, leadership development, or related environment.
- Exceptional written communication skills and the ability to turn complex ideas into practical and engaging content.
- Experience developing thought leadership, research, frameworks, guidance or capability-building resources.
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills and credibility working with senior leaders, governors, boards or iwi organisations.
- Confidence facilitating hui, workshops, discussions and learning experiences.
- The ability to work strategically while remaining hands-on and delivery focused.
- Strong collaboration skills and demonstrable successes with turning insights into action.
About us I Mō mātou We may be a small organisation, but our impact is big. At the IoD, you’ll join a passionate, driven team, united by our commitment to manaakitanga, kaitiakitanga, lifelong learning, courage and individuality.
We offer:
- Competitive remuneration packages
- Flexible working and additional leave options
- Ongoing professional development and growth opportunities
- A collaborative, inclusive and values-led workplace
We welcome diversity and are committed to being an organisation that reflects the communities we serve. Our recruitment process is fair, inclusive and accessible to all. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and are happy to accommodate specific needs throughout the recruitment journey.
How to apply I Me pēhea te tono Complete an online application and attach your Cover letter and CV.
Applications close midday Thursday 22 October 2026. If you would like a confidential kōrero about this role, contact us at recruitment@iod.org.nz.
You must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand to be considered for this role.
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