50 Nonprofit Executive Directors in Australia & NZ

Last updated: August 2026

Introduction

This list names 50 nonprofit executive directors working across Australia and New Zealand. It includes chief executives, national directors and equivalent senior roles at charities and national community organisations. The list is designed for people who want a clear starting point for understanding the people shaping services, advocacy and community support across the region.

As of August 2026, the list spans children and families, health, disability, mental health, poverty, conservation, humanitarian work, volunteering and social justice. The names are presented alphabetically by first name for easy navigation. It is not a claim that one organisation or person matters more than another.

If you work in the nonprofit sector, this page can help you map the wider ecosystem, spot adjacent causes and understand where different kinds of leadership sit. If you are looking for a speaker, partner or peer, use the organisation links as a sensible next step and check the current role before making contact.

Why Nonprofit Executive Directors Matter

Nonprofit executive directors turn public purpose into everyday action. They hold together mission, money, people, safety, partnerships and the needs of the communities their organisations serve. That combination makes the role unusually demanding: the work is values-led, but it still depends on clear choices and dependable execution.

Across Australia and New Zealand, charities work in different settings, from disaster response and food relief to youth mental health, disability support, conservation and aged care. Looking at the people who lead them helps readers see the range of problems the sector carries and the different forms a senior role can take.

The most useful lesson is not to copy a title. It is to notice the link between a leader’s scope and the organisation’s purpose, then ask what habits, relationships and decisions make the work trustworthy over time.

1. Sharon Callister

Chief Executive Officer, Mission Australia

Sharon Callister is Mission Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Mission Australia says she was appointed CEO in 2022 and brings a servant leadership approach to the organisation’s work. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

2. Doug Taylor

Chief Executive Officer, The Smith Family

Doug Taylor is The Smith Family's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The Smith Family says he was appointed in August 2021 after a 30-year social sector career. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

3. Mat Tinkler

Chief Executive Officer, Save the Children Australia

Mat Tinkler is Save the Children Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Save the Children Australia says he became CEO in June 2022 and brings policy advocacy experience to the role. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

4. Tony Stuart

Chief Executive Officer, UNICEF Australia

Tony Stuart is UNICEF Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

A UNICEF Australia event programme identifies him as CEO and places his work alongside young people and their ideas for a better world. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

5. Susanne Legena

Chief Executive Officer, Plan International Australia

Susanne Legena is Plan International Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Plan International Australia identifies her as CEO and notes her long experience in public policy and international development. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

6. Jennifer Tierney

Chief Executive Officer, Oxfam Australia

Jennifer Tierney is Oxfam Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Oxfam Australia lists her as its current CEO, connecting the role with the organisation’s work on inequality and social justice. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

7. Morgana Ryan

Chief Executive Officer, CARE Australia

Morgana Ryan is CARE Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

CARE Australia says she was appointed permanent CEO in September 2024 after serving as interim CEO. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

8. Grant Bayldon

Chief Executive Officer, World Vision Australia

Grant Bayldon is World Vision Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

World Vision Australia’s 2025 annual report describes him stepping into the CEO role while the organisation worked across countries and communities. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

9. Ross Piper

Chief Executive Officer, The Fred Hollows Foundation

Ross Piper is The Fred Hollows Foundation's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The Fred Hollows Foundation says he commenced as CEO in March 2025 after three decades across nonprofit and corporate roles. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

10. Kylea Tink

Chief Executive Officer, Foodbank Australia

Kylea Tink is Foodbank Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Foodbank Australia lists her as CEO and places the role within the national food relief network. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

11. Adam Bandt

Chief Executive Officer, Australian Conservation Foundation

Adam Bandt is Australian Conservation Foundation's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

ACF says he commenced as CEO in January 2026 after being appointed to lead Australia’s national environment organisation. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

12. Dermot O’Gorman

Chief Executive Officer, WWF-Australia

Dermot O’Gorman is WWF-Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

WWF-Australia says he has served as CEO and worked across purpose-driven conservation for more than two decades. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

13. Tanya Buchanan

Chief Executive Officer, Dementia Australia

Tanya Buchanan is Dementia Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Dementia Australia says she began as CEO in May 2024 after leading work across health and community services. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

14. Kristina Keneally

Chief Executive Officer, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation

Kristina Keneally is Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The foundation says she was appointed CEO in November 2022 and leads work to improve the future for sick children. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

15. Janise Mitchell

Chief Executive Officer, Australian Childhood Foundation

Janise Mitchell is Australian Childhood Foundation's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The foundation’s 2025 annual report identifies her as CEO and links the organisation’s work with children and young people. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

16. Travers McLeod

Executive Director, Brotherhood of St Laurence

Travers McLeod is Brotherhood of St Laurence's executive director and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

BSL says he joined as Executive Director in April 2022 and is responsible for day-to-day management of the organisation. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

17. Kevin Barrow

Chief Executive Officer, The Benevolent Society

Kevin Barrow is The Benevolent Society's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The Benevolent Society lists him as CEO since 2025 within its current management team. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

18. Kasy Chambers

Executive Director, Anglicare Australia

Kasy Chambers is Anglicare Australia's executive director and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Anglicare Australia lists her as its Executive Director and describes the role as attending the board ex officio. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

19. Cassandra Goldie

Chief Executive Officer, Australian Council of Social Service

Cassandra Goldie is Australian Council of Social Service's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

ACOSS identifies her as CEO and connects her work with public policy and representing people facing disadvantage. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

20. Tamara Thomas

National Director, UnitingCare Australia

Tamara Thomas is UnitingCare Australia's national director and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

UnitingCare Australia lists her as National Director of the national body for the Uniting Church’s community services network. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

21. Jo-Anne Hewitt

Chief Executive Officer, Achieve Australia

Jo-Anne Hewitt is Achieve Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Achieve Australia says she has been CEO since 2019 and leads strategy, growth and quality services for people with disability. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

22. Mark Orr AM

Chief Executive Officer, Flourish Australia

Mark Orr AM is Flourish Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Flourish Australia identifies him as CEO and describes its work across community mental health and disability services. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

23. Diana Sayed

Group Chief Executive Officer, YWCA Australia

Diana Sayed is YWCA Australia's group chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

YWCA Australia lists her as Group CEO and notes more than 15 years of executive work across rights, gender and advocacy. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

24. Gary Groves

Chief Executive Officer, ReachOut Australia

Gary Groves is ReachOut Australia's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

ReachOut says he brings more than 25 years across public and community sectors and leads its digital mental health work. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

25. Jason Trethowan

Chief Executive Officer, headspace

Jason Trethowan is headspace's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in Australia and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

headspace says he became CEO in January 2017 and has overseen a national network of more than 160 centres and digital services. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

26. Heather Campbell

Chief Executive Officer, Save the Children New Zealand

Heather Campbell is Save the Children New Zealand's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Save the Children New Zealand says she began as CEO in March 2025 and has worked across children’s and international development sectors. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

27. TJ Grant

National Director, World Vision New Zealand

TJ Grant is World Vision New Zealand's national director and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

World Vision New Zealand says he brings nearly two decades of humanitarian leadership and leads its work from Aotearoa. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

28. Susan Glasgow

Chief Executive Officer, UNICEF Aotearoa

Susan Glasgow is UNICEF Aotearoa's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

UNICEF Aotearoa lists her as CEO and says she brings experience in charity leadership, growth and advocacy. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

29. Julie Chapman

Chief Executive Officer, KidsCan

Julie Chapman is KidsCan's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

KidsCan identifies her as founder and CEO and says its work supports schools and early childhood centres across New Zealand. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

30. Shaun Robinson

Chief Executive, Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand

Shaun Robinson is Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand's chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The Mental Health Foundation lists him as Chief Executive and describes his focus on practical, holistic mental wellbeing. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

31. Nicola Toki

Chief Executive Officer, Forest & Bird

Nicola Toki is Forest & Bird's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Forest & Bird says she has led the organisation since 2022, combining conservation work with public advocacy. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

32. Nicola Coom

Chief Executive, Cancer Society of New Zealand

Nicola Coom is Cancer Society of New Zealand's chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The Cancer Society says she was confirmed in the permanent CEO role in September 2025 after years of service and organisational change. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

33. Todd Westwood

Chief Executive Officer, SPCA New Zealand

Todd Westwood is SPCA New Zealand's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

SPCA New Zealand lists him as CEO and describes his work as organisational change and service improvement. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

34. Matt Reid

Chief Executive Officer, Barnardos Aotearoa

Matt Reid is Barnardos Aotearoa's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Barnardos Aotearoa identifies him as Chief Executive Officer within its national work with children and families. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

35. Andrew Crisp

Group Chief Executive, IHC New Zealand

Andrew Crisp is IHC New Zealand's group chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

IHC says he started in January 2025 and leads a large organisation providing services and housing for people with intellectual disability. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

36. Peter Bradley

Chief Executive Officer, Hato Hone St John

Peter Bradley is Hato Hone St John's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Hato Hone St John identifies him as Chief Executive and notes his long ambulance and emergency services background. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

37. Fiona Kingsford

Chief Executive, Whānau Āwhina Plunket

Fiona Kingsford is Whānau Āwhina Plunket's chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Plunket describes her as a former CEO of Competenz with experience in transformation, technology adoption and complex stakeholder work. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

38. Wayne Naylor

Chief Executive Officer, Hospice New Zealand

Wayne Naylor is Hospice New Zealand's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Hospice New Zealand lists him as CEO of the national body representing hospice services. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

39. Tim Edmonds

Chief Executive Officer, Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand

Tim Edmonds is Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The organisation identifies him as CEO and links his role with patient support, research and its current national identity. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

40. Nick Laing

Chief Executive, Canteen Aotearoa

Nick Laing is Canteen Aotearoa's chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Canteen says he has been Chief Executive since 2019 and brings more than 20 years in health and social services. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

41. Karen Billings-Jensen

Chief Executive, Age Concern New Zealand

Karen Billings-Jensen is Age Concern New Zealand's chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Age Concern identifies her as CEO and connects the role with local services, national advocacy and older people’s wellbeing. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

42. Jo Lambert

Chief Executive Officer, Stroke Aotearoa New Zealand

Jo Lambert is Stroke Aotearoa New Zealand's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Stroke Aotearoa says she has been CEO since May 2021 and brings experience across nonprofit and private leadership. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

43. Eleanor Cater

Chief Executive Officer, Community Foundations New Zealand

Eleanor Cater is Community Foundations New Zealand's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Community Foundations New Zealand lists her as CEO and describes her work supporting network growth and philanthropy. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

44. Warick Dunn

Chief Executive, The Masonic Villages Trust

Warick Dunn is The Masonic Villages Trust's chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The 2025 aged care annual report identifies him as Chief Executive and links the trust with care facilities across New Zealand. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

45. Steve Fisher

Chief Executive Officer, Surf Life Saving New Zealand

Steve Fisher is Surf Life Saving New Zealand's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand lists him as CEO within its national lifesaving and volunteer network. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

46. Emma Brown

Chief Executive Officer, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award New Zealand

Emma Brown is The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award New Zealand's chief executive officer and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The award organisation lists her as CEO and places her work within its national youth development network. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

47. Sarah Stuart-Black

Secretary General, New Zealand Red Cross

Sarah Stuart-Black is New Zealand Red Cross's secretary general and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

New Zealand Red Cross says she joined as Secretary General in December 2020 and oversees operational functioning and strategy delivery. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

48. Michelle Kitney

Tumu Whakarae Chief Executive, Volunteering New Zealand

Michelle Kitney is Volunteering New Zealand's tumu whakarae chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Volunteering New Zealand says she leads staff and volunteers and has expanded capability development and advocacy for volunteering. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

49. Ian McInnes

Chief Executive, Tearfund New Zealand

Ian McInnes is Tearfund New Zealand's chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

Tearfund’s current media page identifies him as chief executive in its public work on global poverty and exploitation. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

50. Liz Gibbs

Chief Executive, Burnett Foundation Aotearoa

Liz Gibbs is Burnett Foundation Aotearoa's chief executive and is included because the organisation works nationally in New Zealand and fits this list of nonprofit executive directors. The current role is shown on the organisation's public page, including the role record.

The 2025 impact report identifies her as Chief Executive from June 2025 within the national HIV and sexual health charity. That detail gives readers a useful reminder that nonprofit leadership is both mission-led and operational: the work has to turn purpose into services, partnerships and practical support for communities. Read the organisation’s leadership information.

What These Leaders Show Us About Nonprofit Work

Taken together, these leaders show that nonprofit executive work is a balancing act. Some roles are built around direct services, some around public advocacy, and some around national networks that support local organisations. The titles vary, but the responsibility is similar: keep the mission clear while making the organisation useful, safe and sustainable.

A second pattern is the importance of translation. Executive directors have to translate community needs into strategy, translate strategy into team priorities and translate results into language that supporters, partners and the public can understand. That is a practical leadership skill, not a slogan.

A third pattern is the value of reach without losing local connection. National charities need systems that work across a wide geography, while still listening closely to the people and communities at the centre of the mission. The strongest leadership questions are therefore simple: who is this for, what is changing, and what will make the work last?

How to Use This List

Use this list as a map, not as a substitute for doing your own reading. Start with the cause or community closest to your work, open the organisation page, and note the language it uses for its purpose and current priorities.

If you are building partnerships, compare organisations by the problem they address, the people they serve and the kind of support they can realistically offer. If you are developing your own leadership, look for the practical work behind each role: building trust, making choices, developing people and keeping the mission visible.

For outreach, be specific and respectful. Explain why the organisation’s work is relevant to your reason for writing, keep the first message short, and use the public contact route the organisation provides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who leads a nonprofit organisation?

Usually, a chief executive officer, chief executive, executive director or equivalent national leader manages the organisation’s day-to-day work and carries responsibility for delivering the board’s strategy. Titles differ between charities, so the organisation’s own leadership page is the best guide.

What does a nonprofit executive director do?

The role usually combines mission, people, money, partnerships and accountability. Executive directors help turn a board’s direction into practical work, support staff and volunteers, represent the organisation publicly and keep attention on the communities the organisation exists to serve.

Are nonprofit executive directors the same as charity CEOs?

They are often equivalent roles, although the title depends on the organisation and country. Some charities use CEO, some use Chief Executive, and others use Executive Director or National Director. The scope of the role matters more than the label.

How can I learn more about a nonprofit leader?

Start with the organisation’s official leadership page, then read its recent news, annual report or impact material. This gives you context about the organisation’s purpose and current work before you make contact or form an opinion.

How should I contact a nonprofit executive director?

Use the public contact route provided by the organisation and explain your purpose clearly. A short, relevant message is more useful than a generic pitch, especially when the organisation is working with communities under pressure.

Conclusion

Nonprofit executive directors work across very different causes, but the core challenge is shared: turn purpose into action that people can feel and trust. The people in this list lead organisations working with children, families, older people, people with disability, communities affected by poverty, and people seeking better health and wellbeing.

The best way to use the list is to follow your own question. Choose one cause, read the organisation’s current priorities, and pay attention to the choices that sit behind the public work. That is where leadership becomes practical.

If this page helps you find a relevant organisation, take one small written next step: read its latest public update, then decide whether you want to learn, partner or offer support.

Related Reading

Read 50 thought leaders in the nonprofit sector (https://www.consultclarity.org/post/nfp-leaders-australia-new-zealand) for a wider view of people working across purpose-led organisations. You can also explore how to build organisations people would move cities to work at (https://www.consultclarity.org/post/17-top-leadership-consultants-for-nonprofits-2026) and practical leadership lessons for growing organisations (https://www.consultclarity.org/post/thought-leadership-nonprofits).

Work With Jonno

If your organisation needs a practical keynote, workshop or facilitated leadership session about building a workplace people want to be part of, email jonno@consultclarity.org.

About the Author

Jonno White is a Brisbane-based leadership consultant, keynote speaker and Certified Working Genius Facilitator, and the author of Step Up or Step Out. He works with schools, corporates and nonprofits around the world. To enquire about a keynote, workshop or facilitated leadership session, email jonno@consultclarity.org.