Regional Destination Manager

About the opportunity

As Regional Destination Manager, you will provide strategic leadership for destination management across Tairāwhiti, guiding the region’s long-term vision as a sustainable, high-value visitor destination. This is a pivotal senior leadership role, responsible for shaping destination strategy, leading a high-performing team, and working collaboratively with industry, iwi, community, and government partners.

You will lead the delivery of the Destination Management Plan, ensuring alignment with regional economic development priorities, sustainability principles, and industry trends. With a strong strategic and commercial lens, you will drive destination management and marketing initiatives across local, domestic, and key international markets, while ensuring the region is well-positioned to respond to opportunities, challenges, and crises.

Leading a skilled team that includes the Destination Marketing Advisor, Destination Development Advisor, and i-Site Team Leader, you will foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. You will also be a visible advocate for the visitor economy, representing Trust Tairāwhiti and the region publicly, and building strong, trusted relationships across the tourism ecosystem.

This role sits within the Destination Management group and reports to the GM Economic Development, working closely with the wider economic development, investment, communications and community teams to enhance the prosperity and wellbeing of Tairāwhiti.

What will you bring

To grow and be successful in this role, you will ideally bring the following:

• A relevant qualification in business management, tourism, hospitality or a related field.
• Proven success in a senior destination management or tourism leadership role, with a strong marketing and commercial background.
• Demonstrated experience leading and developing high-performing teams in complex environments.
• Strong strategic capability, with experience in developing, implementing and monitoring long-term plans and KPIs.
• The ability to positively influence and engage stakeholders through clear communication, facilitation, and negotiation.
• A sound understanding of the New Zealand tourism sector and destination management landscape.
• Knowledge of Tairāwhiti Gisborne, its people, and its economic context and opportunities.
• Excellent planning, reporting and financial management skills, including budget oversight.
• High-level written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, well-structured and values-aligned material.
• Strong cultural competency in Te Ao Māori, with the ability to work respectfully and effectively with iwi, hapū and whānau.
• A collaborative approach, willingly sharing knowledge and contributing to a supportive, outcomes-focused environment.

Why Trust Tairāwhiti

You will be part of a connected, values-led organisation committed to making a meaningful difference for our region. We offer a supportive culture, flexibility, professional development, and the opportunity to live and work in a region rich in culture, community, and opportunity.

We can offer you:

• Competitive remuneration
• A senior leadership role with real influence and impact
• A workplace with a clear vision and commitment to making a difference

• Professional development opportunities
• A modern and supportive workplace environment

 Note: The successful candidate will be required to travel from time to time.

We are seeking someone who shares our vision, lives our values, and is passionate about working with our communities and growing our visitor economy.

If this sounds like you and you have the skill set outlined above, apply now on SEEK or email your cover letter and CV to [email protected]

Request full position description