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- Tasks: Lead transformational change and improve lives in a complex custodial environment.
- Company: Ara Poutama Aotearoa, committed to safety and wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of tÄne and their whÄnau.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in high-risk environments and strong cultural competence.
- Other info: Join a values-led organisation that embraces diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 160000 Ā£ per year.
Striving to empower change, an exciting senior leadership opportunity. Make a difference, improve the lives of tÄne and their whÄnau. Lead, drive and support transformational change, best practice and continuous improvement.
We are seeking an exceptional leader for the role of General Manager at Rolleston Prison. This is a unique and privileged opportunity to lead a complex custodial environment, focusing on safety, wellbeing, integrity, innovation and strategic vision.
As the General Manager, you'll be responsible for leading safe, effective, and culturally responsive prison operations. You will oversee the delivery of education, employment, rehabilitation, health, and reintegration services, ensuring tÄne in prison are equipped to succeed upon release. This role carries significant accountability for operational excellence, risk management, and continuous improvement, with a strong focus on HÅkai Rangi, the Organisational Road Map, and Performance Measures.
Working as part of the Custodial Leadership Team, you will contribute to shaping strategy, drive high performance across the site and network, and build strong partnerships with iwi, Community Corrections, Pae Ora, and other key stakeholders. Your leadership will foster a respectful, inclusive culture, focused on safety, wellbeing, and creating lasting change.
We are looking for an emotionally intelligent, empathetic, and visible leader, someone who leads with values, integrity, and purpose. You will be supportive and approachable, while also possessing the courage and determination to raise the bar for quality practice and high operational performance. Your leadership will inspire confidence and trust, and you will consistently demonstrate care and respect both staff, stakeholders and people in prison.
You will bring an in-depth knowledge of management practices, rehabilitation and reintegration best practice, and relevant legislation. Your ability to balance care and compassion with operational discipline and accountability will be essential.
Please submit your application online and include evidence and examples within your written application as to how you meet the following essential requirements:
- Proven senior leadership and operational management experience in a complex, high-risk environment, with the ability to deliver results while balancing care, security, rehabilitation, and reintegration priorities.
- Strong capability in leading cultural change, developing teams, and building capability across diverse workforces, fostering a positive, high-performing culture.
- Sound understanding of resource planning, and operational delivery, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver on long-term strategic goals.
- Excellent risk management skills and a deep commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing, proactively identifying and managing risks across multiple operations.
- Strong cultural competence and understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application in government, with proven ability to work in partnership with iwi.
The midpoint of the salary range is $198,757 and the full range (85%-120%) is $168,944 - $238,509. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.
Ara Poutama Aotearoa is a name that has been gifted to us and is our commitment to improving the oranga and safety of the people, whÄnau, and that of the communities we serve across the motu.
As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship) and whÄnau (relationships) to shape how we work and deliver the outcomes in our strategy.
We welcome applications from disabled and neurodiverse communities, all cultures, faiths, and rainbow communities, as we appreciate the richness of experience that diversity brings to our organisation. We strive to make our recruitment process fair and inclusive, and we encourage applicants to discuss reasonable accommodation with us if required at careers@corrections.govt.nz.
If you have any questions, please contact: Gabriella.Morfey@corrections.govt.nz. To apply, please submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience. Alignment to our kaupapa is critical to our success - we ask that you provide examples which reflect and demonstrate our organisation values.
Applications close on: Monday 23rd February 2026. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency. Applications received via email will not be considered. If you want to find out more about a career with us, visit careers.corrections.govt.nz or email our team at careers@corrections.govt.nz.
General Manager - Rolleston Prison in Canterbury employer: Department of Corrections NZ
Contact Detail:
Department of Corrections NZ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice š¤«
We think this is how you could land General Manager - Rolleston Prison in Canterbury
āØTip Number 1
Get to know the organisation's values and mission. When you walk into that interview, show us how your personal values align with theirs. Itās all about making that connection!
āØTip Number 2
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask during your interview. This shows us that you're genuinely interested in the role and the impact you can make. Plus, it gives you a chance to assess if this is the right fit for you.
āØTip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! We want to hear about your past experiences and how theyāve shaped you as a leader. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep your answers clear and impactful.
āØTip Number 4
Follow up after your interview with a thank-you email. Itās a simple gesture that can set you apart from other candidates. Remind us of your enthusiasm for the role and appreciation for the opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager - Rolleston Prison in Canterbury
Some tips for your application š«”
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the General Manager role. Highlight your senior leadership experience and operational management skills, especially in complex environments. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission of improving lives.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your motivation for joining us at Rolleston Prison. Share specific examples of how you've led cultural change and built high-performing teams. This is your chance to show us your passion for making a difference!
Showcase Your Values: Weāre all about values here at StudySmarter. In your application, make sure to demonstrate how you embody our principles like manaaki (respect) and kaitiaki (guardianship). Use real-life examples to illustrate your commitment to these values.
Submit Through Our Website: Remember, all applications must be submitted through our careers site. This ensures transparency and fairness in our recruitment process. So, donāt forget to hit that 'Apply Now' button on our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Department of Corrections NZ
āØKnow Your Values
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on the values that resonate with you and how they align with the organisation's principles. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've demonstrated these values in your previous roles, especially in leadership positions.
āØShowcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it has positively impacted teams in high-risk environments. Think about instances where you've successfully led cultural change or improved operational performance, and be ready to share those stories.
āØUnderstand the Role's Impact
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of the General Manager role, particularly around rehabilitation and reintegration services. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure safety and wellbeing while driving transformational change within the prison environment.
āØEngage with Cultural Competence
Demonstrate your understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its significance in the context of the role. Be ready to discuss how you would work collaboratively with iwi and other stakeholders to foster a respectful and inclusive culture within the prison.
