Head of People & Performance

Image

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) is the regulatory and governing body for the sport of Thoroughbred racing in New Zealand. We are on a mission to create a sustainable and successful Thoroughbred Racing Industry for Kiwis to enjoy for many generations to come!

Racing is a significant contributor to the New Zealand economy, accounting for a remarkable $1.6 billion (0.9% of GDP) and directly employing around 10,000 individuals.

At NZTR, we oversee all aspects of Thoroughbred racing, from licensing and registrations to setting the races and ensuring the wellbeing of our people and horses. Our industry is in the midst of some exciting dynamic change, with NZTR relocating to Cambridge, the heart of Thoroughbred racing, and an exciting new wagering partner, Entain. Together, we are driving the much-needed transformation to thrive for many years to come, attracting new talent and engaging a new demographic of punters, owners, and racing enthusiasts.

Join us at NZTR and be part of a team that is at the forefront of this exciting period of transformation in the New Zealand's Thoroughbred racing industry!

About the Role
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced HR professional and people extraordinaire to join our growing team based in the heart of Cambridge. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role will work across the business to lead initiatives that empower our people to thrive. By fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace, you’ll help shape a culture that attracts, engages, and retains top talent, positioning us as an employer of choice within the community.

Coming out of a time of significant transformation, relocating our business from Wellington to the Waikato and significantly investing in our people and culture, the foundations have been set! We have a new office, the team is thriving and our business is in a stage of settling in under the leadership of our new CEO. This creates an incredible opportunity for an experienced HR professional with a true passion for people to take the reins, build on the good work that’s been done and make this role their own!

You will lead the People and Performance function in its entirety for a growing business of circa 55 people. You will work closely with the leadership team to drive business improvements and implement initiatives to support our people! This is not a compliance role, but rather a true people partner, working alongside the business, building strong relationships across the board and supporting the long-term strategy by building people capability to deliver on our objectives. 

This role is not about maintaining the status quo – we’re looking for someone who can bring fresh ideas, feel comfortable with rolling up their sleeves and supporting with anything from the most mundane admin task to creating and implementing strategic initiatives!  If this sounds like you, then we want to hear from you!

About the Team
We're a small group of enthusiastic and like-minded individuals who share a passion for driving our industry forward. We thrive in a collaborative environment where we learn from each other, share ideas, and always look for new and innovative ways to get the job done.

We're looking for someone who is eager to grow and develop alongside us, and who is just as passionate about fully engaging, supporting their colleagues, and working together as a team.

About the Person
We’re on the lookout for a true people person who is ready to make their mark! Preferably you will have formal qualifications in Human Resource Management or similar, coupled with circa 5 years of hands-on HR experience. You will have strong interpersonal skills and find it easy to work across the breath of the business, building rapport and engagement in business initiatives. Experience in organisational design and change management will be a real advantage, as is system knowledge of Culture Amp, JotForm and Canva!

You will have the full HR and employee life cycle nailed, have experience in cost centre management, board reporting, be comfortable with working independently and have a knack for engaging people! You will be a strong people leader, capable of challenging the norm and leading change with empathy and good process!

Culture fit is of upmost importance, so your bubbly personality, can do attitude and willingness to roll up your sleeves is important! We’re a vibrant, energetic team that values collaboration, positivity, and a good sense of humour. If you’re someone who enjoys working alongside a diverse group of leaders and taking initiative on all things people and performance, you’ll fit right in. This is your chance to bring your skills, insights, and energy to a team that’s passionate about making an impact!

About the Offer
To attract and retain top talent in the industry, we offer market-related salaries that are reflective of the skills, experience, and expertise of our people. We have an amazing office located in the heart of Cambridge, just a short walk to loads of coffee shops and amenities. Not only will you have a smooth and easy commute to work, but you'll also enjoy free parking, annual race day passes, flexible working arrangements and a culture that truly prioritises the development of its people!

If you are seeking a dynamic career in racing administration and aspire to work in a fun environment, then look no further! Join us and become part of a team that offers more than just a job – we offer an environment where you can thrive, develop your skills and enjoy what you do!