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Vacancy: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

The WBRU Board is now seeking applications for the role of Chief Executive Officer for the Wairarapa Bush Rugby Union.

Job Description: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Location: Wairarapa, New Zealand
Organisation: Wairarapa Bush Rugby Union

About Wairarapa Bush Rugby Union:

Wairarapa Bush Rugby Union is a proud and historic provincial rugby union with a strong community connection and a commitment to developing rugby talent at all levels. We are dedicated to fostering rugby excellence, promoting community engagement, and delivering an inclusive, competitive rugby environment across the Wairarapa Bush region.

The Role:

We are seeking an experienced and visionary leader to take on the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CEO will lead the operational and strategic direction of Wairarapa Bush Rugby Union, working with the Board, staff, sponsors, clubs, and the wider community to strengthen the union’s performance, grow participation, and ensure financial sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Leadership: Execute the Board’s strategies and long-term plans to achieve winning performances and develop successful rugby teams at all levels of the game. Implement initiatives to promote and market rugby and drive the expansion of rugby. Ensure the ongoing commitment of clubs, players, administrators, and volunteers by delivering on the strategies and plans set by the Board and developing talent within the Union, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of skilled players and administrators
  • Financial Performance: The CEO maintains a strong focus on financial sustainability, making informed decisions to optimize revenue generation, cost control, and resource allocation. By diligently monitoring financial indicators and implementing sound financial strategies, the CEO safeguard the long-term financial health and success of the Union.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Foster strong relationships with clubs, sponsors, community partners, and New Zealand Rugby, and other rugby union CEO’s, representing the union’s interests at regional and national levels. Encouraging other WBRU staff to develop networks and contacts within other unions, clubs and in business generally.
  • Commercial Management: Drive revenue growth through sponsorship, partnerships, and community engagement, ensuring the financial health of the union. Leading the acquisition of new sponsorship partnerships and campaigns to support all levels of rugby, but with an emphasis on professional and representative levels.
  • Operational Oversight: Manage day-to-day operations, including administration, budgeting, and rugby development programs. Maximise the opportunities for staff to actively develop the competencies required by WBRU and to increase their contribution and worth. Carry out effective performance and remuneration reviews for direct reports. Ensure that appropriate HR systems and processes are in place and that all employer obligations to staff are met. Uphold te Tiriti o Waitangi by demonstrating knowledge and application of te Tiriti o Waitangi. Continue to build a diverse and inclusive environment in rugby and give consideration on how rugby can actively promote and ensure compliance with Health and Safety requirements and responsibilities.
  • Rugby Development: Collaborate with coaching, players, and development teams to ensure player pathways, community engagement, and rugby development initiatives are robust and effective.

Key Attributes:

  • Proven leadership experience in a sporting, non-profit, or commercial environment.
  • Strong commercial acumen with a track record of managing budgets and driving financial sustainability.
  • Passionate about rugby and community engagement, with the ability to inspire others and promote a positive culture.
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
  • Experience in strategic planning and executing growth initiatives.
  • Understanding of New Zealand rugby’s structure and provincial rugby’s unique challenges.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • Minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership or CEO role.
  • A background in sports administration, rugby, or a related field would be advantageous.
  • Experience working with or reporting to a Board of Directors.
  • A demonstrated ability to lead and manage a diverse team.

What We Offer:

  • An opportunity to make a significant impact on the growth of rugby in the Wairarapa region.
  • A supportive and passionate community environment.
  • Competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.

How to Apply:

Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience and vision for the future of Wairarapa Bush Rugby Union to Jason Carruthers (Chair WBRU) by 29 November 2024.

For a full job description or more information, please contact Jason Carruthers at jason@hublegal.co.nz or 0274-662-599

Applications close: 29 November 2024
Start Date: To be negotiated