Job type: Fixed term - 12 months
Reports to: Head of Advocacy and Public Affairs
Contract type: Fixed Term – 12 months
Location: Wellington
Our Kaupapa
Working together towards a future free from cancer is our vision and it guides everything we do at the Cancer Society. We are here for anyone affected by cancer, no matter who you are or what kind of cancer you are facing.
Our mission is to reduce the number of people who get cancer and to ease the impact it has on lives across Aotearoa, New Zealand. Our support is wide-ranging from emotional and practical help to transport, accommodation, advocacy, and funding for research and innovation.
The Cancer Society is deeply connected to the communities we serve across New Zealand. We work hand in hand with local people, to raise the funds that keep our services running and help us plan for the future.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi is at the heart of our work. We recognise Māori as Tangata Whenua of Aotearoa and are committed to upholding that role. Through our Strategic Plan and Equity Charter, we are focused on tackling the unfair gaps in cancer outcomes that affect Māori, Pasifika, and other under-served groups across the motu.
Position purpose - Whāinga te āhuatanga
The Skin Cancer Prevention Programme Manager has a pivotal role in delivering and evaluating national initiatives that reduce the incidence of skin cancer in Aotearoa New Zealand. This includes leading campaigns, partnerships, evidence reviews, and advocacy efforts that prevent skin cancer and promote the importance of early detection.
Working collaboratively across the health sector, government, and the Cancer Society Federation, the Programme Manager ensures the programme remains a credible, evidence-based, and equity-driven voice in cancer prevention, treatment, and support.
Key accountabilities - Ki whanaungatanga
Programme management
• Lead and manage the day-to-day centralised operations of the programme working in partnership with the Cancer Society divisions.
• Collaborate with partner organisations to deliver a three-year national campaign.
• Collaborate with the communications team to develop compelling messages tailored to diverse audiences.
Position Description
• Collaborate with our partner organisations to build the evidence and policy function to underpin the programme.
• Work collaboratively to support the an evidence-based policy and advocacy approach.
• Integrate the lived experiences of people impacted by cancer into the national programme.
• Manage day-to-day national operations of the education programme in partnership with the Cancer Society divisions.
• Support website maintenance and online resources.
• Manage relationships with sector stakeholders and groups and the internal federation, to ensure
coordinated efforts and shared goals.
Strategic programme review
• Undertake a comprehensive review of the programme and provide options and recommendations for CSNZ senior leadership and the board.
• Collaborate with our fundraising team and others to develop a sustainable funding approach.
Team contribution
• Contribute to a positive and open team culture across the National Office and wider Federation.
• Support the Head of Advocacy and Public Affairs by taking on additional responsibilities as required, demonstrating flexibility and initiative.
Qualification and experience
• Proven tertiary qualification in public health, communications, policy, or a related field.
• Experience in strategic programme reviews and communication with senior management.
• Experience in campaign delivery, programme management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Understanding of marketing and communications and the digital environment.
• Familiarity with health promotion and advocacy in the New Zealand context.
• Ability to interpret and apply evidence to inform strategy and messaging.
• Skilled in building partnerships and managing cross-sector relationships.
• Understanding of skin cancer prevention strategies and public health principles. Personal attributes
• Commitment to equity and improving outcomes for people affected by cancer.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive and solutions-focused approach.
• Empathetic and respectful communicator who values diverse perspectives.
• Team player who contributes positively to organisational culture.
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
For any questions, contact us on admin@cancer.org.nz