Head of Finance

Lead financial sustainability and operational excellence with purpose, supporting NZ Rugby's seriously injured players

• Creating thriving futures for Rugby's seriously injured players and their whānau.
• Delivering long-term financial sustainability and operational integrity.
• Providing governance and risk support to the Board.
• Competitive salary.

At Everest, we are all about people. We work with our clients and candidates to build great relationships so we can match the right person to the right role.

Here's our latest opportunity

About the organisation

Founded in 1986 the NZ Rugby Foundation (NZRF) has stood proudly alongside rugby's seriously injured players and their whānau for over three decades. Their mission is simple but powerful - to ensure that those who have experienced life-changing injuries through rugby are supported to live full, connected, and thriving lives.

Providing direct financial assistance, emotional support, and advocacy for players and their families, NZRF works in partnership with medical providers, funders, and the wider rugby community. Their work extends beyond immediate care - championing injury prevention, collaborating across the sport, and fostering lifelong wellbeing outcomes.

Passionate and relentless in driving influence beyond the game, the 155,000 registered rugby players in New Zealand who play our most loved sport are at the forefront of their mind - from the moment they step out onto the pitch through to the unimaginable of a life changing injury.

About the role

As Head of Finance & Operations, you'll be responsible for ensuring NZRF's financial sustainability, operational integrity, and compliance across all areas of governance, risk, and reporting. You'll report directly to the Board and work closely with the wider leadership team to embed sound systems, strengthen accountability, and drive cultural and operational direction for long-term impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting cycles, ensuring transparency and accuracy.
• Oversee audit, risk, and compliance frameworks, meeting all charitable and statutory obligations.
• Support governance by preparing Board papers, managing registers, and ensuring robust policy frameworks.
• Partner with peers to ensure aligned planning, integrated reporting, and seamless operations.
• Lead wider operational support activities to uphold NZRF's vision and values of compassion, courage, connection, and commitment.

About You

You'll bring a solid foundation in finance, compliance, and organisational leadership - ideally within an incorporated society, charitable trust, or not-for-profit environment. Your calm, solutions-focused approach enables you to lead through change with integrity and empathy. You're both detail-oriented and forward-thinking, able to navigate the regulatory landscape while fostering innovation and team cohesion.

We're seeking an experienced leader with:

• Tertiary qualifications in finance, accounting, or a related field (CA or CPA certification preferred).
• Expertise in financial leadership, organisational transformation, and operational management.
• Familiarity of multiple revenue streams, including sponsorship and grant funding, within a charitable, sports or not-for-profit environment.
• A track record of creating a positive high performing workplace culture and promoting the values of the organisation through your actions.
• A collaborative and resilient leadership style that balances innovation with stability.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to balance strategic vision and hands-on execution.

This is an opportunity to contribute to something meaningful - ensuring that those who've given so much to the game of Rugby receive enduring support. You'll play a pivotal role in shaping the systems, culture, and future of a respected charitable organisation that stands proudly alongside its community.

Applications close Wednesday 19 November.

Apply Now

Ready to make an impact? For a confidential discussion, please contact Recruitment Partner, Helen Dale, on