Manager People, Safety and Workplace

As VSA’s Manager, People, Safety and Workplace, you’ll shape the culture and wellbeing of an organisation that’s changing lives across Aotearoa and the Pacific. This is a dynamic leadership role where strategy meets purpose. You’ll lead a passionate Advisor to create an exceptional people experience, foster a safe and thriving workplace, and champion initiatives that bring Te Tiriti o Waitangi to life in everything we do. If you’re motivated by meaningful mahi, value collaboration and want to make a real impact on how people grow and connect, this role offers the chance to do work that matters every day.

The role

This is both an operational and strategic role leading VSA’s People, Safety and Workplace function alongside a highly capable Advisor. You’ll be the driving force behind the design and implementation of our People, Hauora, Health & Safety strategies and projects including

• Recruitment, onboarding, and performance processes that attract, grow and retain great people
• Embedding our new comprehensive Hauora, Health and Safety Framework to keep our team safe and thriving
• Acting as a trusted advisor and coach for managers and kaimahi providing reliable, high-quality support and advice on all people matters
• Fostering a culture of learning, professional growth, and commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
• Ensuring our Wellington office facilities run smoothly and support a positive working environment.

Why VSA?

At VSA we believe in the power of people helping people. VSA is Aotearoa’s largest international volunteer charity, sending skilled Kiwis to work alongside communities in the Pacific, supporting locally led change through sharing skills and knowledge.

We’re all about manaakitanga – respectful partnerships, cross-cultural learning, and sustainable change. Our values reflect Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and are underpinned by manaakitanga, respectful partnerships, and the spirit of volunteering.

What you’ll bring:

• 5+ years senior HR or people leadership experience in a generalist role (not-for-profit experience is advantageous).
• A relevant tertiary qualification (or equivalent experience), with a solid understanding of NZ employment law (knowledge of employment law in the Pacific is advantageous)
• Excellent people skills to build trust and work respectfully across cultures.
• Strong communication, empathy, and conflict resolution skills.
• A collaborative, proactive approach and a genuine passion for supporting people.
• An interest in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and growing cultural capability in our VSA team.
• An understanding of remuneration and job evaluation systems.
• Confidence using data to generate insights and guide decision-making.
• Experience leading coaching, performance, and inclusion initiatives that strengthen organisational culture.
• Tech-savvy with Office 365 and a proactive, can-do attitude.
• A genuine interest in international development and making a difference.

What you’ll bring:

• 5+ years senior HR or people leadership experience in a generalist role (not-for-profit experience is advantageous).
• A relevant tertiary qualification (or equivalent experience), with a solid understanding of NZ employment law (knowledge of employment law in the Pacific is advantageous)
• Excellent people skills to build trust and work respectfully across cultures.
• Strong communication, empathy, and conflict resolution skills.
• A collaborative, proactive approach and a genuine passion for supporting people.
• An interest in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and growing cultural capability in our VSA team.
• An understanding of remuneration and job evaluation systems.
• Confidence using data to generate insights and guide decision-making.
• Experience leading coaching, performance, and inclusion initiatives that strengthen organisational culture.
• Tech-savvy with Office 365 and a proactive, can-do attitude.
• A genuine interest in international development and making a difference.

How to apply:
Volunteer Services Abroad values diversity and is committed to an inclusive, flexible, and supportive workplace. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds and welcome the unique talent and experience you will bring to the VSA team.

This role is based in Wellington CBD, with the flexibility to work-from-home up to a couple of days a week.

To apply, please email a copy of your CV and cover letter to Mary Sinclair Jones (msinclairjones@vsa.org.nz).

If you have any questions about the role, please reach out to Mary Sinclair Jones on msinclairjones@vsa.org.nz or 021356740.

Applications close Thursday 13 November at 5pm. Please note we will be reviewing applications as we receive them and may invite suitable candidates to interview prior to the closing date.