If you have a question that is not listed here, contact us at nominate@ethniccommunities.govt.nz.
How does the Nominations Service work?
We have a database of candidates from ethnic communities who are interested in being considered for roles on public sector boards and committees. As board roles become available, we use our database to identify candidates who have the required skills and experience. Depending on the appointment process, we either forward candidate details to the agency requesting nominations or contact candidates and encourage them to apply directly for the role.
Can you help with finding a job?
No, this is not a job database. We only help nominate people for government board roles.
Who can register?
We serve those who identify their ethnicity as African, Asian, Continental European, Latin American and/or Middle Eastern. If you identify with any of these ethnicities and have considerable senior-level experience and sector expertise, you are invited to register with us.
What happens to my registration form and CV?
The information you provide is stored securely in our database. Your registration form and CV help us to match your skills and experience to board positions. If the Ministry nominates you for a role, we send a copy of your details to the agency requesting nominations.
How often can I expect to hear from the Ministry?
We may be in contact if we receive details of board vacancies that match your skills and experience. We will also be in contact to invite you to apply directly for board opportunities that may be available on the agencies’ websites. We will also contact you if we need you to provide an updated CV.
I have been on your database for a while now and never hear from you, why is this?
Our Nominations team makes every effort to connect each database candidate to available roles. The number of public sector board roles available can vary throughout the year, and agencies request specific skills and experience as board vacancies arise. Our team will only put you forward for roles if we are confident that you match the requirements. Depending on the agencies’ processes, we may not always contact you about roles before we put your name forward. Please be aware that due to the high number of applications received for roles, the chances of being shortlisted can be slim.
When should I update my details?
Contact us as soon as the information on your CV changes to ensure that it is up-to-date. This enables us to better match you with suitable board roles. We also need you to let us know if any of your contact details change. Email us at nominate@ethniccommunities.govt.nz to update your CV details.
I am a public servant. Can I be appointed to a board?
We do not nominate public servants to government boards and committees, but previous experience in the public sector can be valuable. If you are a current public servant and interested in developing your governance career, we recommend getting involved in community and voluntary boards.
How long will I serve on a board?
This depends on the board. Appointment terms can range from one to five years and board members may be reappointed.
Will I be paid?
Most boards pay meeting fees and/or reimburse travel expenses. It is important to consider the commitment and financial cost of an appointment before you agree to it.
Are board positions full-time jobs?
Board positions are not full-time jobs. Board members are required to prepare for and attend regular board meetings and the required time commitment varies depending on the board. It can be common for boards to meet for a half or a whole day once a month. Preparation time might add another one to two days’ work per month.
I am interested in a vacancy but unsure if I have the time commitment. Should I apply?
We recommend only applying for roles where your CV clearly demonstrates your ability to match the skills and experience requested by the agency. You may not have the time commitment now, but it can take up to eight months for the appointment process to be complete. The agency making the appointment will be able to provide information about the time commitments. If you are successful for a role, you are not obliged to accept an appointment that is offered to you.
Does a nomination ensure an appointment?
A nomination from us does not ensure an appointment. Our role in the appointment process does not extend beyond providing nominations. The appointment process is highly competitive and a single vacancy for a board member can attract a high number of nominations from several sources. Shortlisting and interviewing is done by the agency and the final decision is made by the Minister or Governor-General with Cabinet’s approval.
How can I increase my chances of being appointed to a board role?
- Become involved in governance roles at an entry-level and work your way up. There are many opportunities to take on a governance role in local communities and professional associations. For example, you might consider standing for a school Board of Trustees or the presidency of a local branch of your professional association. Taking on roles of responsibility will demonstrate that you are committed to governance.
- Talk to people who have held governance roles to become more familiar with the responsibilities and expectations of board members.
- Keep an eye out for upcoming appointments that interest you and only apply for roles where you can demonstrate that you meet the requirements. Ensure that the information in your CV clearly reflects your appropriateness for the role.
- It is essential that you submit a comprehensive governance CV which highlights your key achievements, strengths, experiences, and competencies. If your CV is poorly presented, lacking detail or missing key information, you may miss out on opportunities. Our Nominations team relies on the information you provide in your CV when considering your suitability for board roles.
- If the application requires you to fill out an expression of interest form or provide a cover letter, we recommend that you provide all the required documents. Take your time and do it properly. Ask someone who knows you well to peer review and check for clarity.
- Look out for any training opportunities in governance, including professional development courses by the Institute of Directors in New Zealand and Governance New Zealand.
- Sports New Zealand offers a free Governance 101 online training.
- CommunityNet Aotearoa is an online hub of resources designed to strengthen communities. You can find useful information to assist you on your governance and leadership journey.
- Community Governance Aotearoa supports great governance of community organisations across Aotearoa with a range of resources and lists vacancies also.
Where can I find board roles?
- Public sector board roles are often advertised under the “Boards and Governance” category on the jobs.govt.nz website.
- Consider signing up to receive updates from Appoint Better Boards about current governance vacancies.
- Seek Volunteer is a useful place to search for current voluntary and entry-level community governance opportunities.
- Community Governance lists vacancies across various sectors and levels.