Organisational Development Advisor VAN 42352
Organisational Development and Human Resources
Closing date: 9/17/2026
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Te Whāinga | Our Purpose
Te Hono Tangata - Te Huringa Ora
Ka hono a Te Tūao Tāwāhi i ngā tūao pūkenga ki ngā whakahaere me ngā hapori i te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa me tua atu, hei tautoko i ngā wawata kua tautuhia ā-rohe, ā, kia tutuki ai te panoni toitū.
Connecting People – Transforming Lives
Volunteer Service Abroad connects skilled volunteers with organisations and communities in the Pacific and beyond to support locally identified aspirations and achieve sustainable change.
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi / About the role
This is your opportunity to become a VSA Volunteer and support sustainable tourism development in Vanuatu while experiencing life in the Pacific.
We are looking for an experienced organisational development, governance, business development or tourism professional who is passionate about building capability and supporting locally led development.
Based in Lakatoro, Malekula , you will work alongside the Vanuatu Island Bungalows and Tourism Association (VIBTA) and the Department of Tourism Vanuatu (DOT) to strengthen organisational systems, improve sustainability, and support local tourism operators to grow their businesses
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This assignment is for 12 months, with the option to extend .
VSA will support you by funding and organising flights, visas, insurance, accommodation, living allowance and utilities while you are on assignment
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Ngā tino pūkenga/wheako | Essential skills and experience
We are looking for someone with:
- Experience in organisational development, governance or strategic planning
- Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills
- Experience developing policies, systems or business processes
- Experience mentoring, training or capacity building
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- An interest in tourism, community development or economic development
Important note: Due to VSA funding requirements, applicants must be a New Zealand Citizen or New Zealand Permanent Resident.
Our Partner Organisations Vanuatu Island Bungalows and Tourism Association (VIBTA) represents local rural tourism operators across Vanuatu. Following its reactivation in 2026, the association is focused on strengthening its governance, sustainability and member services. The Department of Tourism Vanuatu works to increase participation and ownership of ni-Vanuatu in the tourism sector and support sustainable tourism development throughout the country.
The Assignment Key areas of focus include:
- Strengthening VIBTA's governance and organisational structure
- Reviewing and improving the association's constitution and policies
- Supporting sustainable membership and funding models
- Helping tourism operators improve standards and visibility
- Supporting the development and promotion of a VIBTA website
- Strengthening collaboration between VIBTA and the Department of Tourism
The Country – Vanuatu
Vanuatu is known for its rich culture, welcoming communities and stunning natural environment. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable tourism development while living and working on the island of Malekula.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and life experiences. If you're excited about this opportunity but don't meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply.
At VSA, we recognise that transferable skills, adaptability, relationship-building abilities and a commitment to sustainable development can be just as valuable as specific technical expertise.
Apply through the VSA website or contact volunteer@vsa.org.nz for further information.
What’s included
Included when you join us
VSA organises and fully funds return economy-class international flights between New Zealand and your host country, plus any approved domestic travel connected to your assignment.
You’re covered under VSA’s comprehensive travel and medical insurance policy, which also includes emergency evacuation and personal belongings coverage. Before departure, you’ll receive full information on what’s covered and how to access support.
VSA arranges and funds safe, furnished accommodation throughout your assignment, whether you're in a capital or rural location. A housing checklist ensures your needs are met for comfort and security.
You’ll receive a modest monthly living allowance, paid into a local bank account, designed to cover essentials like food, transport, and utilities. This is in line with VSA’s cost-of-living support for volunteers.
Before you leave, VSA provides a multi-day residential briefing in Wellington, fully funded by VSA. This includes cultural orientation, language training, health and safety guidelines, and logistical preparation to get you deployment-ready
From your first day on assignment, you’ll have strong in-country support from VSA staff, Programme Managers and Coordinators, who provide orientation, security briefings, pastoral care, and ongoing assistance throughout your placement.
Preparation
How to prepare?
Be prepared for a comprehensive recruitment journey. This includes initial screening, background checks, and two interviews, one of which is a panel interview with a subject matter expert. Only after successfully completing these steps will you receive a provisional offer and begin the onboarding process. It’s essential to wait for VSA’s confirmation before making significant life changes, such as resigning from your job or selling property, as there may be delays in immigration or medical clearances.
Once accepted, you'll be invited to attend a multi-day residential briefing in Wellington. This course equips you with tools for success, covering cultural orientation, safety protocols, health preparation, and assignment logistics. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with other outgoing volunteers.
Volunteering abroad can be both deeply rewarding and personally challenging. Conditions may be unfamiliar, and change is often constant. Bring flexibility, a sense of humour, and a willingness to learn from others, you’ll grow alongside the community you’re there to support.
You’ll need to complete a health screening and ensure all required vaccinations are up to date. VSA provides medical and travel insurance, but you are also responsible for managing your day-to-day wellbeing. Think about how you'll maintain mental and physical health while overseas.
VSA asks volunteers to become ambassadors for the kaupapa. You will be asked to fundraise $1,000 to support the programme and raise awareness about your assignment. We provide resources and guidance to help you share your story and connect your networks with the impact of your work.
The platform we ask you to use is Raisely.
From visa applications to police checks and health forms, there are a few critical administrative tasks before departure. Our team will guide you through the steps to make sure everything is completed on time and with ease.
