Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for stakeholder engagement, policy development, and kaupapa Māori?

Pūhoro Charitable Trust is seeking an experienced Pou Hiranga – Senior Advisor to strengthen our strategic relationships, ensure effective reporting, and oversee policy development and review. This is a critical role in advancing Pūhoro’s vision and ensuring organisational sustainability.

About Pūhoro Charitable Trust

Pūhoro Charitable Trust is dedicated to increasing Māori participation and success in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Mātauranga). Operating across 13 regions in Aotearoa, we support over 2,000 rangatahi Māori through innovative programmes, strategic partnerships, and cultural empowerment. Our mission is to drive meaningful change in the STEMM landscape, ensuring rangatahi thrive and lead in the sector.

The Role

We are looking for a highly skilled and action-oriented advisor to lead key strategic areas, including:

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and strengthen relationships with iwi, industry partners, government agencies, tertiary institutions, and other key stakeholders.
• Strategic Reporting: Oversee and ensure high-quality reporting of contractual obligations, including preparing stakeholder reports, internal documents, and the Pūhoro Annual Report.
• Policy Development & Review: Maintain and update Pūhoro’s policies and procedures to ensure compliance and relevance.
• Strategic Advisory: Provide insights and recommendations to the senior leadership team to enhance operational efficiency and organisational effectiveness.

This role plays a vital part in ensuring Pūhoro’s continued growth, sustainability, and excellence in delivering kaupapa Māori-driven education initiatives.

For a full copy of the job description click here.

About You

We are looking for a strategic and relationship-driven professional with the following skills and experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., STEMM, Māori Development, Communications, or equivalent).
• Strong relationship management skills, with experience engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders, including iwi and industry partners.
• Proven experience in report writing and policy development.
• Ability to manage confidential information with sound judgement and integrity.
• Highly organised and adaptable, with a problem-solving mindset and a proactive approach.
• Experience working in kaupapa Māori environments is desirable.
• Knowledge of te reo Māori me ōna tikanga is advantageous but not essential.

Position Details

• Location: Palmerston North (with regional and national travel as required)
• Reporting to: Te Pae Urungi (Senior Leadership Team)
• Contract Type: Permanent, full-time (37.5 hours per week)
• Salary Band: Step 5 ($72,500 - $101,000)

How to Apply

If you are a strategic thinker passionate about kaupapa Māori and making a difference in the lives of rangatahi Māori, we would love to hear from you.

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to k.reweti@puhoro.org.nz.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and suitable candidates may be invited to interview before the closing date.

Shortlisted applicants will undergo:

• An initial interview (in person is preferred).
• A financial credit check.
• A criminal record check.
• Reference checks from previous employers.

Applications close: 5pm Sunday 13 April, 2025.

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