Mō mātou | About Us 

For over 50 years, Cure Kids has been at the heart of children’s health research in Aotearoa New Zealand. We fund and champion high-quality, evidence-led research that improves outcomes for children, families, and future generations and we’ve built a brand that New Zealanders know and trust. 

Our work sits at the intersection of science, philanthropy, and purpose. We partner with universities, research institutions, government, and a wide network of funders and supporters who share our deep commitment to the health and wellbeing of our tamariki. 

The Cure Kids brand is one of our greatest assets hard won over five decades, and something our next leader will protect, build upon, and carry forward with pride. 

He angitūtanga | The Opportunity 

Reporting to the Board, the Chief Executive will lead Cure Kids through its next phase of strategic growth and long-term impact with a clear mandate to unite people, drive momentum, and position the organisation for outsized influence in child health. 

You will be responsible for: 

• Strategic leadership – bringing clarity, sound judgement, and decisive direction that galvanises our organisation and inspires action.
• Advocacy and profile – serving as the credible, confident public face of Cure Kids, championing children’s health research with substance and integrity.
• Partnerships – building and sustaining meaningful relationships across the charitable, scientific, government, and philanthropic ecosystems. This includes protecting and deepening existing partnerships that are central to our long-term strength, while extending our reach and influence.
• Commercial and financial stewardship – ensuring diversified, sustainable funding; strong investment intelligence; and the discipline required to deliver on our purpose.
• Internal alignment – unifying people and resources behind a clear strategic direction and lifting the bar for what Cure Kids can achieve.
• Research excellence – championing high-quality, evidence-led science as a fundamental driver of improved outcomes for children and families. 

Ko wai koe | About You 

You are a visionary leader with the commercial intelligence, relational depth, and public presence this role demands, and you will bring: 

• Proven senior leadership experience, with a track record of building organisational momentum and delivering long-term impact.
• A genuine appreciation for the role of science and evidence-led research in improving children’s health and the ability to champion this publicly with confidence and credibility.
• Strong financial acumen and the ability to translate commercial thinking into a charitable context, securing the funding and partnerships that underpin our mission.
• Excellent relationship skills across corporate, philanthropic, university, government, and community sectors with a demonstrated ability to protect and grow high-value partnerships.
• A values-led approach, with a commitment to equity, inclusion, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Presence and authenticity, with the ability to inspire donors, researchers, partners, and the public alike. 

Why This Role Matters 

This is a rare opportunity to lead an iconic New Zealand charity with a mission that genuinely matters. Children’s lives – and the science that saves them. 

If you are ready to step into that purpose, we would love to hear from you. 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply 

This role is based in Auckland. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

For a copy of the candidate information pack, please email Mel Keane at info@amytea.co.nz 

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter (preferably in PDF format) to apply@amytea.co.nz by midnight, Wednesday 15 April.