At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support a vibrant team of volunteers for the National Summer Games.
- Company: Join Special Olympics New Zealand, empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities through sport.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, build connections, and make a real impact in your community.
- Why this job: Shape an inclusive volunteer experience while working with passionate people in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in event management, strong leadership skills, and excellent communication abilities required.
- Other info: Position based in Christchurch or Wellington, with immediate start until December 2025.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about people and community? Do you thrive on building relationships and making a meaningful impact? We are looking for a Volunteer Manager to lead, support and grow our incredible team of volunteers!
As Volunteer Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing our volunteer programme – from recruitment and onboarding to training, recognition, database management and retention. This role is people-first, purpose-driven, and packed with potential to shape an inclusive and supportive volunteer experience.
About Us:
Special Olympics New Zealand is a not-for-profit charitable organisation that provides sporting opportunities for people with an intellectual disability throughout Aotearoa and utilises sport as a vehicle to promote a more inclusive society where people with an intellectual disability are empowered, visible and valued.
Once every four years we hold our National Summer Games, this year the Games will be held in Christchurch (10-14 December) and will bring over 1,600 athletes and coaches from clubs all around the country to compete in 10 sports across multiple venues.
We have a great opportunity for an experienced Event and/or Volunteer professional to manage the planning, recruitment and delivery of the Event Volunteers programme. The ideal candidate for this position will demonstrate:
- Experience working in or leading a large event volunteers programme.
- Proven record of people management, leadership, and motivating others.
- Ability to foster effective working relationships with key stakeholders and leverage them to achieve positive outcomes.
- Exceptional communication, presentation, and inter-personal skills.
- Excellent time management and organisational ability.
- Excellent computer literacy (including Microsoft Office suite, databases, and internet). This role will be spending a lot of time on our volunteer management platform Rosterfy.
- A team approach - someone who is happy to get involved and help where needed across the team.
- Current Clean Full Drivers Licence.
- Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.
- Ability to deal calmly and consistently with demanding responsibilities and conflicting priorities.
The role is 40 hours per week, immediate start until 19 December 2025. Christchurch or Wellington based. This role alongside the full Events Team will be located in Christchurch for the build up (up to a week), pack in and pack out of the event.
If you would like a copy of the JD or have any queries please contact Liz Fitzgerald at Events@specialolympics.org.nz otherwise please apply via Seek. Applications close on Friday 19th June.
Volunteer Manager - Chch or Wgtn - National Summer Games employer: New Zealand Skills and Education Group
Contact Detail:
New Zealand Skills and Education Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Manager - Chch or Wgtn - National Summer Games
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current or former volunteers from Special Olympics New Zealand. They can provide valuable insights into the organisation's culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Rosterfy, the volunteer management platform mentioned in the job description. Understanding how to navigate this tool will demonstrate your initiative and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of your past experiences in managing large volunteer programmes. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will showcase your leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the National Summer Games and understand its significance. Being knowledgeable about the event will show your passion for the role and commitment to the mission of promoting inclusivity through sport.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Manager - Chch or Wgtn - National Summer Games
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Volunteer Manager position. Highlight key skills such as people management, communication, and organisational abilities in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in managing volunteer programmes or events. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to foster relationships with stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for community engagement and your understanding of the Special Olympics' mission. Explain how your background aligns with the role and why you are excited about the opportunity.
Prepare for Application Questions: Anticipate the application questions regarding your experience with Microsoft Office, volunteer management, and people management. Prepare concise and relevant answers that highlight your qualifications and readiness for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Zealand Skills and Education Group
✨Show Your Passion for Community
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for community engagement and volunteerism. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to making a positive impact, as this role is all about fostering relationships and supporting volunteers.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or managed volunteer programmes in the past. Highlight your ability to motivate others and create an inclusive environment, as these are key aspects of the Volunteer Manager role.
✨Know the Organisation and Event
Research Special Olympics New Zealand and the National Summer Games thoroughly. Understanding their mission and values will help you align your answers with what they are looking for, showing that you're genuinely interested in the role and the organisation.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions about how you would handle specific situations related to volunteer management, such as conflict resolution or recruitment challenges. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident during the interview.