Strategic Leadership
• Lead the board in setting and reviewing the Trust's strategic direction and priorities.
• Champion the Trust's vision, mission, and values across all governance and stakeholder activity.
• Support the Trust's long-term sustainability — funding, partnerships, and organisational resilience.
Governance & Meetings
• Chair board and annual general meetings effectively, ensuring clear agendas, robust discussion, and sound decisions.
• Ensure the board operates in compliance with the Charities Act 2005, Companies Office requirements, and the Trust's deed.
• Support the recruitment, induction, and development of trustees to build a balanced, capable board.
• Oversee governance records, risk, and compliance in partnership with the Board Secretary and Treasurer.
Working With the Team
• Act as the primary point of contact and support for the Manager, holding a constructive working relationship between governance and operations.
• Support (not direct) the paid team — governance leadership, not day-to-day management.
• Ensure clear delegation between board and management and accountability for delivery.
External Representation
• Act as an ambassador for the Trust with donors, sponsors, partners, DOC, and the wider community.
• Represent the Trust at events, public engagements, and in advocacy for kārearea conservation.
• Proven leadership and governance experience — board, executive, or senior leadership background.
• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to guide big-picture direction while respecting governance boundaries.
• Excellent facilitation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Sound judgement, integrity, and the ability to foster an inclusive, respectful board culture.
• Understanding of charitable trust governance, compliance, and not-for-profit funding (desirable).
• Alignment with our conservation kaupapa and commitment to te ao Māori principles where relevant.
• A connection to Marlborough and/or the conservation community (desirable).
6-8 hours per month
Getting started:
The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below.
We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.
Conservation