New Zealand: Associate Director of Church Schools

The Seminaries and Institutes of Religion (S&I) Department is seeking an experienced leader to serve as an Associate Director of Church Schools. Church Schools help students deepen their conversion to Jesus Christ and His restored gospel, to qualify for the blessings of the Temple, prepare for missionary and Church service, and to build the kingdom of God. Church Schools provide students with an opportunity to obtain knowledge and skills that will assist them in their future educational and career endeavours. The Associate Director will provide leadership, mentoring, and strategic direction to strengthen learning outcomes, workforce capability, and educational excellence. This is a permanent, full-time position reporting to the Director of Church Schools. Applications are welcome from candidates who can work in New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, or Fiji.

Responsibilities

As the Associate Director, you will work closely with the Director, principals, area leaders, and key stakeholders to support the effective administration of Church school programs. In this leadership role, you will help strengthen teaching and learning, develop and mentor school leaders and educators, and foster a Christlike culture of unity, accountability, and continuous improvement. You will provide coaching and meaningful performance feedback, contribute to key strategic priorities and initiatives that include improving rates of academic success, recruiting, and developing qualified teachers. You will also support the implementation of educational strategies and policies, support workforce planning and professional development, oversee compliance and financial stewardship responsibilities, and use data-informed decision-making to improve student outcomes. This role also requires collaboration with Human Resources and regular travel to support schools and educational initiatives across the assigned countries.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or equivalent qualification.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience, including 4 years in leadership and people management.
• Strong knowledge of Church educational programs, teaching and learning principles, and school operations.
• Proven ability to lead, coach, mentor, and develop educators and school leaders.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to provide constructive feedback, facilitate professional development, and lead meaningful discussions.
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to use data to improve student outcomes.
• Experience managing budgets, resources, and operational compliance.
• Understanding of supporting students with diverse learning and wellbeing needs.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Alignment with the mission, objectives, and direction of the Church Board of Education and S&I leadership.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required.
• Proof of Legal Right to Work in New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, or Fiji.
• A police background check may be required.