Location: Christchurch | Full-time, (2-year contract)
Are you a passionate leader with a heart for youth development and cultural transformation? Do you thrive in environments where best practice, cultural integrity, and team empowerment are at the core of everything you do?
Youth and Cultural Development (YCD) is seeking a dynamic Practice Lead to guide our team of kaimahi (youth workers) and elevate the quality of our services for rangatahi across Ōtautahi.
About the Role
As our Practice Lead, you’ll be responsible for:
- Leading and mentoring a team of 20+ youth workers
- Driving best practice across all YCD programs
- Designing and delivering impactful training and induction
- Embedding trauma-informed and strength-based approaches
- Facilitating Te Tiriti o Waitangi workshops and cultural competency development
This is a hands-on leadership role where your expertise will directly shape the lives of young people and the growth of our team.
What You’ll Bring
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field (required)
- 5+ years’ experience in youth work, program management, or related field
- Proven leadership in managing teams, training delivery, and program design
- Strong knowledge of youth development, cultural competency, and training methodologies
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and build strong relationships
- Experience in project management, data analysis, and evaluation
- Full NZ driver’s license
Why Join YCD?
- Be part of a Kaupapa driven organisation making a real impact
- Lead with cultural integrity and innovation
- Work alongside passionate, values-aligned kaimahi
- Shape the future of youth development in Aotearoa
Ready to Apply?
We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running and bring both heart and strategy to this vital role.
Apply now with your CV and a cover letter outlining your leadership experience and cultural competency.
For a full job description and or any further questions, please email the General Manager, fredw@ycd.co.nz
If you’re committed to empowering rangatahi, Kaimahi and upholding our Kaupapa of strength-based, culturally grounded youth development, get in touch.
-Work alongside a dynamic, values-driven team
-Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Apply now: rachael@actis.org.nz