Iwi chief executive

Iwi CEOs lead iwi organisations. They plan strategies and honour the Māori values of tikanga, whakapapa and kawa. They build external relationships to ensure the wellbeing, growth and success of iwi members.

Also known as

Iwi CEO, iwi chief executive officer, iwi general manager, Māori relationships manager

Work environment

  • Usually work regular hours but may work evenings and weekends
  • Usually work in offices and may travel locally and nationally
  • May do emotionally demanding work
  • Need to lead others, communicate well and identify and solve problems

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$125K-$750K 125000

Typical tasks

  • Represent the cultural needs of iwi members
  • Plan and guide economic and cultural strategies
  • Uphold Māori values when making decisions
  • Develop and implement policies
  • Manage finances for iwi
  • Build relationships with other iwi and government partners
  • Support the health and wellbeing of iwi members
  • Lead and support iwi staff

Outlook

Many iwi organisations are expanding their roles across areas such as economic development, education, health, housing and environmental stewardship. In New Zealand, growth in iwi-led initiatives and long-term investment strategies is creating opportunities for organisational leadership. Increasing collaboration between iwi, government, communities and businesses continues to influence the sector's development and future direction.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Strategic leadership and decision-making skills
  • Strong relationship-building abilities
  • Understanding of te ao Māori and tikanga Māori
  • Financial and organisational management skills
  • Clear communication and stakeholder engagement
  • Ability to balance long-term goals with community needs

AUT programmes

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

Further study options

Back to search

Content is reviewed by our experts, but information can change over time. Some content is created with AI support.

This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.