Director of Strategic Operations

About the role

We are seeking two senior leaders to join Oranga Tamariki as Director Strategic Operations, one based in Christchurch and one in Auckland. Reporting directly to the National Commissioner, the role sits at the heart of operational leadership and strategic delivery, influencing outcomes for children, young people and families across New Zealand.

Key responsibilities

• Provide high‑quality strategic advice and counsel to the National Commissioner.
• Lead and coordinate major operational responses, initiatives and improvement programmes.
• Drive performance, assurance, analysis and continuous improvement activities.
• Manage complex, high‑profile operational and stakeholder issues.
• Influence and collaborate with government agencies, iwi, Māori partners and community organisations.
• Champion effective change implementation and embed initiatives into day‑to‑day operations.
• Use data, insights and system‑level thinking to identify opportunities for improved performance and service delivery.

Required profile

• Proven senior executive with extensive experience in the public sector, social services or similarly complex environments.
• Strong track record of leading large‑scale operational improvement and transformation programmes.
• Experience managing organisational performance, risk, governance and business planning.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and relationship‑management skills.
• Analytical capability to translate complex information into practical solutions.
• Deep understanding of government processes, priorities and systems.

Required skills