Closing date: Friday 15 May 2026
Reports to: National Secretary
Hours: 30-40 hours per week negotiable, (some evening/weekend work required)
Salary: As per the Unite Staff Agreement Start Date: Negotiable
Assistant Secretary – a senior leadership position for a dedicated, strategic and experienced Organiser helping steer the union’s growth, campaigns, and operations nationwide.
This role supports the National Secretary and is deeply involved in day-to-day leadership, industrial strategy, campaigns, and union-building. Regular member contact is essential, a small Organising patch may be allocated after consultation, depending on the needs of the union.
Key Responsibilities
• Support leadership of the union alongside the National Secretary and elected National Executive.
• Develop and lead strategic organising campaigns that build power and win better conditions for workers.
• Oversee and support staff teams, including organisers, administrators, and campaign workers.
• Lead or support collective bargaining, including developing strategy, engaging members, and negotiating with employers.
• Manage internal systems, including compliance, reporting, and organisational planning.
• Represent Unite externally, including in media, public forums, and with employer or government representatives.
• Champion membership growth, especially among Māori, Pasifika, migrant, young and low-waged workers.
• Support Organisers with Higher-level casework, mediations and ERA hearings. Other leadership and management tasks as directed by the National Secretary.
Role Requirements:
• Strong experience in union organising or grassroots movement building.
• Strategic thinking and leadership experience in campaigning, bargaining or advocacy.
• Familiarity with New Zealand employment law and the industrial relations system.
• Excellent communication and people skills – across cultures, ages and sectors.
• A deep commitment to the kaupapa of unionism, solidarity, and workers’ power.
• A current driver’s licence
• Experience working with Māori, Pasifika and/or migrant communities.
• Experience in managing teams, planning campaigns, or mentoring organisers.
• Knowledge of te Tiriti o Waitangi and commitment to upholding tino rangatiratanga.
A job description is attached, please write to shanna@unite.org.nz by noon Friday 15 May.
Contact person: Shanna Olsen-Reeder