CEO

CHIEF EXECUTIVE Advert

Christchurch Resettlement Services (CRS)

Lead an organisation that helps people remake their lives and thrive in Aotearoa.

Christchurch Resettlement Services (CRS) provides specialised settlement, social support and community services for people from refugee, asylum seeker and migrant backgrounds across Ōtautahi Christchurch.

With a dedicated team of approximately 20 staff, strong community relationships, and a reputation for professional, culturally responsive practice, CRS plays a vital role in supporting successful settlement and social inclusion.

Based in Addington village, CRS is entering an exciting new chapter as our long-serving Chief Executive prepares for retirement in early 2027.

The Board is seeking an experienced and values-driven leader to guide the organisation into its next phase of growth and impact.

The Opportunity

Reporting directly to the Board, the Chief Executive is responsible for the overall leadership and performance of CRS, including strategy, people leadership, service delivery, financial sustainability, stakeholder relationships, and organisational development.

Supported by Team Leaders, an Administrator, and external specialists in finance, payroll and IT, you will lead a capable and committed team delivering high-quality services to diverse communities.

Key priorities include:

• Leading and supporting a high-performing and engaged workforce.
• Strengthening organisational capability and sustainability.
• Maintaining excellent relationships with funders, government agencies, community partners and ethnic communities.
• Ensuring services remain culturally responsive, ethical and effective.
• Working with the board to develop and implement strategic priorities.
• Identifying and securing future funding and partnership opportunities.
• Maintaining sound financial management, compliance and risk oversight.

About You

You are an authentic and capable leader who combines strategic thinking with a practical, hands-on approach.

You understand the importance of cultural responsiveness and can build trust across diverse communities, stakeholders and government agencies.

You bring:

Most of these qualities

• A track record of making a difference for people’s well-being and their whanau.
• Leadership experience in the social-work, health, community or charity sectors.
• Demonstrated success leading people, culture and organisational performance.
• Strong financial and business management capability.
• Experience managing contracts, funding relationships and accountability requirements.
• A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and culturally responsive practice.
• Excellent relationship-building, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• The ability to work effectively with a governance board.

Highly Desirable

• Lived experience of migration, refugee resettlement, or strong experience working alongside refugee and migrant communities.
• Understanding of trauma-informed and strengths-based professional practice.
• Experience working with government funding and commissioning environments.
• Existing networks within the social services sector.

Why Join CRS?

This is an opportunity to lead a respected organisation that makes a tangible difference in the lives of individuals, whānau and communities every day.

You will inherit a committed diverse team, a strong reputation, and the opportunity to shape the future direction of a highly valued community organisation.

Applications

To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Applications close: 9 October 2026

For a confidential discussion, please contact Tim Williams

Phone: 02108661718

Email: [email protected]