Our Client
Established in 1955, the Mataura Licensing Trust (MLT) was founded with a clear purpose to serve, strengthen and reinvest in its local community. The community owned organisation based in Gore, Southland, reinvests all profits back into the region through grants, sponsorships and support for local initiatives. Employing over 170 team members and operating a portfolio of hospitality venues including bars, restaurants, hotels, motels and liquor outlets; MLT plays a vital role in strengthening Southland’s social and economic wellbeing, helping make the district one of the best places to live, work and raise a family in the country. To learn more, visit: http://www.mltgore.co.nz
The Role
As Chief Executive, you will provide strategic leadership to ensure the continued success and growth of the Trust. Working in partnership with the Board, you will lead the organisation’s vision, strategy and operations, balancing strong commercial performance with community purpose. You will oversee a diverse hospitality portfolio, foster an engaged and high performing team, and ensure the Trust continues to deliver meaningful outcomes for the people of the district. This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected community enterprise that combines commercial strength with genuine social impact.
About You
You will be an accomplished executive leader with a track record of leading a complex, multi-site organisation. With proven strength in strategic and financial management, you will be able to demonstrate sound judgement, integrity and the ability to deliver results through people.
You will be a collaborative and values driven leader, foster strong relationships with the Board, management team and community stakeholders. You will be structured and strategic in your approach with the ability to implement at a tactical level while having the drive to deliver on the business plan. Experience within hospitality or retail industries would be advantageous.
Most importantly, you will be motivated by the purpose of the MLT, combining strong business acumen with a genuine commitment to the wellbeing and prosperity of the district.
To view the position description for this role click here
About the Region
The MLT boundary incorporates Gore, Mataura, Tapanui, Tokanui, Wyndham and Edendale providing lifestyle convenience; including health services, hospitals, 18 hole golf courses, a short course Olympic sized ice skating rink, modern aquatic centre and an internationally renowned art gallery.
There are four high schools, numerous primary schools within the MLT boundary and outstanding tertiary education opportunities at nearby Otago University and Southern Institute of Technology.
The region is on the doorstep of some of New Zealand’s most spectacular locations, including Fiordland, Queenstown and Central Otago. Within two hours you can be hitting the slopes of Queenstown’s ski fields or enjoying the scenery on spectacular cycle trails. Two international airports (Dunedin and Queenstown) are within 90 minutes, and Invercargill airport just 45 minutes to the south.
To Apply
If you are an experienced executive ready to lead a respected community focused organisation and make a lasting impact, please submit your cover letter and CV by clicking the ‘Apply’ button. Initial enquiries are welcome by phoning Nick Carter on 03 345 8764 or Kase Craig on 021 657 328.
Applications close 5pm 1 December 2025
