Head of Growth and Development

About NZ Football:

Football is the global game and Football in New Zealand is the biggest game in the country, providing experiences and opportunities for all – male and female, young and not so young, talented athletes and community level players. New Zealand Football’s purpose is to enrich lives and connect people through positive experiences to build strong communities, and our staff are passionate and talented people who are committed to living our core Values: Enjoyment, Respect, Collaboration, Inclusive and Ambition.  New Zealand Football is committed to upholding the mana of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is embarking on a journey to grow and embed a rich, vibrant culture of diversity and inclusion. We aim to make football the most inclusive sport in Aotearoa New Zealand, and we’d love you to join us.

As the Head of Growth and Development, you will lead the charge to make football the most inclusive sport in Aotearoa. You’ll drive participation growth, champion diversity and inclusion, and spearhead development initiatives for women’s football and futsal. Working closely with the Technical Director and leading a talented team, you’ll design and deliver strategies that attract and support more female, Māori, Pasifika, and Asian participants and leaders, and embed inclusive practices across the football system.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of participation growth, diversity, inclusion, and equity strategies.
• Champion initiatives to reduce barriers, improve access, and ensure equal opportunities for all.
• Oversee targeted programmes for women’s football and futsal, driving gender equity and thriving participation.
• Advocate for diversity and inclusion in all aspects of football, internally and externally.
• Inspire and manage a high-performing development team, fostering continuous improvement and innovation.

About You
You are a visionary leader with a strong track record in sports development, passionate about creating positive change and building inclusive communities. You bring deep knowledge of football, experience in implementing and evaluating development programmes, and the ability to motivate and empower skilled professionals. Your collaborative approach, resilience, and commitment to equality will help shape the future of football in New Zealand.

Experience & Qualifications

• At least 5 years’ experience leading growth, inclusion and participation initiatives; managing teams; and building partnerships while overseeing programmes or policies.
• Tertiary qualification (essential)
• Degree in sports management (preferred)

Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to lead transformational change in a purpose-driven organisation, helping to build strong communities and shape the future of football in Aotearoa. Join us and play a critical role in delivering quality experiences for all. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who are passionate about growing the game and building an inclusive football community. If you have the skills, experience, and drive, back yourself and apply!

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. Research shows that individuals from underrepresented groups, including women, often hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. If you’re excited about this role and believe you have what it takes, even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply.

Applications close 5pm on Monday 9th February 2026, however, we will process applications as soon as they are received and this job advert may close sooner if an appointment is made prior to the closing date, don’t delay, apply now! Please note all applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.