- Lead with purpose
- Champion equity
- Shape the future for the Deaf community in Aotearoa
Deaf Aotearoa is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive to lead the Deaf Aotearoa Group through its next phase of impact, advocacy, and organisational maturity.
About Deaf Aotearoa
Deaf Aotearoa is a national Deaf-led organisation working alongside Deaf people, their whānau and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. The organisation delivers services across early intervention, youth, education, employment, advocacy, seniors’ services, and the promotion of New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) as one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s official languages.
The Deaf Aotearoa Group comprises Deaf Aotearoa New Zealand (DANZ), a
membership-based society representing over 2,200 Deaf members, and Deaf
Aotearoa Holdings Limited (DAHL), the operational entity delivering services and managing staff, finances, and contracts. Deaf Aotearoa employs approximately 70 staff, works alongside over 100 contracted NZSL interpreters, operating nationally from 14 offices.
The Role
Reporting to the DANZ Executive Board and the DAHL Board, the Chief Executive provides strategic, operational, and cultural leadership across the Deaf Aotearoa Group. The role sits at the intersection of community leadership, service delivery, and national advocacy, representing Deaf Aotearoa with credibility and influence at the highest levels.
The Boards will consider candidates being based in Wellington, Auckland or Christchurch.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and implement the organisation’s strategic direction in partnership
with the Boards and Deaf community - Provide high-quality governance advice, reporting, and risk management
Ensure effective nationwide service delivery and compliance with
funding and contractual requirements - Provide strong financial stewardship and diversify revenue streams
to ensure sustainability - Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing leadership team and inclusive
Deaf-led culture - Lead Deaf Aotearoa’s advocacy agenda as the recognised national
representative body for Deaf New Zealanders - Act as primary spokesperson and representative nationally and internationally
About You
- You will be a values-driven senior leader with proven experience in
senior executive or CEO-level leadership, excellent people leadership skills,
strong strategic capability, and the humility to genuinely connect with,
and lead, within a Deaf-led Kaupapa, strong alignment with Deaf culture
and community aspirations - Experience within the not-for-profit, disability, public, or community sector is
highly desirable. - You will bring credibility with funders and government, and the ability to operate confidently in complex and public-facing environments.
- Fluency in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), or a commitment to achieve
fluency NZSL skills are desirable, - A strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and respect for Deaf, Māori,
Pasifika, and diverse communities is essential. - Sound financial and governance experience
Why Join Deaf Aotearoa
This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally significant organisation that influences public policy, language rights, and access for Deaf people across Aotearoa New Zealand, while also maintaining strong international standing.
Lead a kaupapa-driven organisation making a real difference while workingalongside passionate Deaf leaders, staff, and communities.Influence national policy and systems for accessibility and inclusion
How to Apply
This recruitment is being managed by our partners at SWR Group on behalf of Deaf Aotearoa. To apply for this role, please send your CV and covering letter to tony@swr.nz quoting reference no. 4029093.
Applications are welcomed in written English or NZSL video format.
Please submit a cover letter (or NZSL video) and your CV.
Alternatively, to find out more contact Tony Walsh on 029 271 1101. Should you wish to apply directly via our website, please do so via this link https://swr.nz/jobs/
Applications close: 5.00pm, Friday, 12th June.
However, we will be shortlisting applications as they come in and will interview as soon as possible to secure the right person