General Manager

Are you an experienced manager in the last decade of your career?  Are you a young professional with management or legal qualifications looking to add a substantial management role to your CV? Are you ready for a change? This role offers you the chance to embark on a journey that intertwines New Zealand's history with the vibrant culture of France?

Here's your chance to lead and champion the pivotal role at the newly opened New Zealand Liberation Museum – Te Arawhata, nestled in the historic town of Le Quesnoy, France.

About Us:

In October 2023, the New Zealand Memorial Museum Trust proudly unveiled the New Zealand Liberation Museum – Te Arawhata.  The visitor experience, created by Wētā Workshop, takes visitors on an emotional journey into the story of the Liberation of Le Quesnoy by New Zealand troops.  There was no loss of civilian life, a remarkable achievement in wartime, and the town is forever indebted to the bravery of Kiwi troops.  This museum stands as a symbol of freedom; as a symbol of the enduring friendship between New Zealand and Le Quesnoy; and as beacon for a future free of conflict if we learn from the past.

Te Arawhata is more than a museum. It is a hub of community for New Zealanders and French alike with the aim of creating a brighter future together. It is New Zealand’s Tūrangawaewae on the Western Front.

The Opportunity:

We are in search of a dynamic and visionary General Manager to lead our on-site team, commencing from August 2024. As the face of our museum, you will oversee day-to-day operations, cultivate strategic local and NZ partnerships and grow the sense of pride and meaning that the local community has towards the museum.

Your Responsibilities:

• Embody and execute the Trust's vision for operational success
• Navigate the intricacies of the local French business landscape while staying true to our mission
• Nurture and strengthen relationships with stakeholders in France, the UK and New Zealand
• Lead a diverse team of permanent employees and volunteers, fostering a culture of positivity, collaboration and excellence
• Assist in developing the museum’s strategic growth plan

What You Bring:

• An enthusiasm to use your managerial skils in the service of NZ history and story-telling
• A deep appreciation for New Zealand's cultural heritage and the ability to communicate fluently in English
• Capability with the French language is important but also something that can be developed.  An understanding of French culture and business practices is preferable, however a willingness and an ability to learn could see you across the line
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for engaging with diverse stakeholders
• Proven experience in multicultural settings, public-facing roles, team management, and financial stewardship
• Authorisation to work in France (assistance can be sought for this)

Why Join Us:

This is more than a job; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the shared history and friendship between France and New Zealand. As our General Manager, you'll hold a role of national significance and play a pivotal role in preserving the legacy of our soldiers and WW1 stories, while forging meaningful connections across borders in Europe and beyond.

Given the young age of the museum you will play a critical role in developing it to its potential and leaving your mark on this NZ icon.

If you are passionate about commemorating history, fostering cultural connections, leading a business, and have the drive to make a lasting impact, we want to hear from you! Please provide a CV and cover letter and we will be in touch.

Are you an experienced manager in the last decade of your career?  Are you a young professional with management or legal qualifications looking to add a substantial management role to your CV? Are you ready for a change? This role offers you the chance to embark on a journey that intertwines New Zealand's history with the vibrant culture of France?

Here's your chance to lead and champion the pivotal role at the newly opened New Zealand Liberation Museum – Te Arawhata, nestled in the historic town of Le Quesnoy, France.

About Us:

In October 2023, the New Zealand Memorial Museum Trust proudly unveiled the New Zealand Liberation Museum – Te Arawhata.  The visitor experience, created by Wētā Workshop, takes visitors on an emotional journey into the story of the Liberation of Le Quesnoy by New Zealand troops.  There was no loss of civilian life, a remarkable achievement in wartime, and the town is forever indebted to the bravery of Kiwi troops.  This museum stands as a symbol of freedom; as a symbol of the enduring friendship between New Zealand and Le Quesnoy; and as beacon for a future free of conflict if we learn from the past.

Te Arawhata is more than a museum. It is a hub of community for New Zealanders and French alike with the aim of creating a brighter future together. It is New Zealand’s Tūrangawaewae on the Western Front.

The Opportunity:

We are in search of a dynamic and visionary General Manager to lead our on-site team, commencing from August 2024. As the face of our museum, you will oversee day-to-day operations, cultivate strategic local and NZ partnerships and grow the sense of pride and meaning that the local community has towards the museum.

Your Responsibilities:

• Embody and execute the Trust's vision for operational success
• Navigate the intricacies of the local French business landscape while staying true to our mission
• Nurture and strengthen relationships with stakeholders in France, the UK and New Zealand
• Lead a diverse team of permanent employees and volunteers, fostering a culture of positivity, collaboration and excellence
• Assist in developing the museum’s strategic growth plan

What You Bring:

• An enthusiasm to use your managerial skils in the service of NZ history and story-telling
• A deep appreciation for New Zealand's cultural heritage and the ability to communicate fluently in English
• Capability with the French language is important but also something that can be developed.  An understanding of French culture and business practices is preferable, however a willingness and an ability to learn could see you across the line
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for engaging with diverse stakeholders
• Proven experience in multicultural settings, public-facing roles, team management, and financial stewardship
• Authorisation to work in France (assistance can be sought for this)

Why Join Us:

This is more than a job; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the shared history and friendship between France and New Zealand. As our General Manager, you'll hold a role of national significance and play a pivotal role in preserving the legacy of our soldiers and WW1 stories, while forging meaningful connections across borders in Europe and beyond.

Given the young age of the museum you will play a critical role in developing it to its potential and leaving your mark on this NZ icon.

If you are passionate about commemorating history, fostering cultural connections, leading a business, and have the drive to make a lasting impact, we want to hear from you! Please provide a CV and cover letter and we will be in touch.