We are serious about bringing hope, transforming lives, and changing the future of our community — and we are looking for a dynamic Youth Programmes Lead to join our passionate team.

If you are an experienced youth or community services professional who is motivated by purpose, grounded in strong practice, and energised by seeing at‑risk rangatahi and their whānau start to dream again, this role is for you.

About Us

Community Link Trust strengthens communities through practical whānau and youth services that bring hope, transform lives, and change the future. Our approach is to walk alongside one individual and whānau at a time, restoring hauora, empowering potential, and activating lasting change.

We are part of the Activate Faith Group, working with our partners in education, health, and faith-based services to build he waahi haapai oranga o te iwi - a place to support the well-being of the community on our Ruakura park site.

We have seen many lives and families transformed over the past 15 years. Our programmes draw from Te Whare Tapa Whā, and are strengthened by our wraparound services which include financial mentoring, whānau support, welfare support, tinana, and even practical property support. We also have innovative social enterprises like our Op Shop, Property Link, and The Mana Factory gym.

https://communitylinktrust.nz | https://activatefaithgroup.nz

About the Role

As our Youth Programmes Lead, you will drive the success of our youth services as they grow resilience, connection, emotional regulation, re‑engagement in learning & pro‑social pathways, reduce harm or offending, and increase whānau capacity.

This role blends leadership with hands‑on practice. You will coordinate mentors, advocate for rangatahi, and deliver strong, evidence‑based outcomes. You will build excellent relationships with schools, agencies, whānau and community partners, and help shape the future of our youth services while ensuring they reflect our values and kaupapa.

This is a 25‑hour per week role, with potential for growth.

What You’ll Do

• Lead delivery of programme outcomes, contract requirements and uphold service integrity
• Support youth workers to deliver quality, mana‑enhancing mentoring and case planning
• Work within budgets and ensure resources are used responsibly to maximise impact
• Oversee referral acceptance and allocation, coordinate assessments and reviews
• Build strong relationships with schools, agencies, community stakeholders and whānau
• Ensure documentation, data, and reporting clearly demonstrate outcomes and impact
• Monitor caseloads to ensure safe, sustainable practice and support mentor capability
• Contribute to new youth initiatives that align with our mission and respond to community need

About You

• Experience in youth services, social services, or related fields
• Experience working with complex trauma, high‑risk behaviours, and diverse whānau needs
• Social Work registration or similar qualification preferred
• Strong relationship‑building and communication skills
• Ability to lead, motivate, and support others
• Understanding of, or willingness to learn, tikanga Māori and kaupapa Māori approaches
• Initiative, sound judgement, and calm leadership in complex situations
• Passion for supporting at‑risk rangatahi and their whānau to find hope and create meaningful change
• Full driver’s licence and ability to meet all required safety checks

What We Offer

• A passionate, values‑driven team committed to real impact
• An innovative, supportive, and inspiring work environment that continues to grow and evolve
• Opportunities for training, development, and leadership growth
• The chance to shape and strengthen youth services for our community
• Mobile phone + laptop

Why Join Us?

• Lead transformative youth programmes

• Work with rangatahi and their whanau towards real change

• Support a team of passionate mentors

Apply Now

If you are ready to lead with purpose and heart, we’d love to hear from you. Please apply through Seek with your CV and a personally written cover letter (no AI please)

For any queries, please email HR at [email protected]

We will recruit as soon as we find the right person — so don’t delay.