Director of Operations – Community Law Movement

About the role

Community Law Centres Aotearoa (CLCA) is seeking a senior leader to build the organisational capability behind New Zealand’s community law movement. Reporting to the Chief Executive and joining the Senior Leadership Team, you will shape finance, systems and operations for a national nonprofit that supports 24 community law centres.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop a small team responsible for finance, data, systems and organisational support.
• Provide strategic leadership across operational functions, ensuring strong capability and performance.
• Oversee financial planning, budgeting, reporting and financial governance.
• Strengthen business systems, information management, technology and data capability.
• Drive organisational planning, operational improvement and risk‑management initiatives.
• Manage people operations including employment processes, payroll, health & safety and capability development.
• Supervise procurement, supplier relationships and business support services.
• Contribute as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team to shape CLCA’s future direction.

Required profile

• Significant senior leadership experience in operational, corporate services or business management.
• Strong financial management background, including budgeting, reporting and governance.
• Proven track record of leading organisational improvement and embedding effective systems.
• Experience working closely with CEOs, boards and senior leaders.
• Excellent people‑leadership skills with a collaborative, enabling approach.
• Understanding of the community law sector is an advantage.

Required skills