Join our team: Volunteer Board Trustee in Fundraising and Marketing

We are seeking an experienced and committed volunteer board trustee as a volunteer trustee, bringing expertise in fundraising, marketing, communications and stakeholder engagement.

For more than 70 years, the Auckland Medical Research Foundation (AMRF) has funded progress, supporting medical researchers whose discoveries improve health outcomes, advance scientific knowledge, and strengthen New Zealand's research capability.

Since our establishment in 1955, we have invested over $100 million in world-class medical research and are New Zealand’s largest independent funder of research across the spectrum of all diseases and disorders. 

We are unique in that all our administration expenses are covered by an external benefactor so 100% of our income goes directly to our purpose – to fund medical research.

The opportunity

We are now seeking an experienced and committed individual to join our Board of Trustees as a volunteer trustee, bringing expertise in fundraising, marketing, communications and stakeholder engagement.

This is a rewarding governance role and as a trustee, you will contribute to the work of a highly skilled board and management team to provide strategic direction, stewardship, and oversight of the Foundation's mission and resources.

The successful candidate will play a key role in helping the Foundation grow its profile, strengthen stakeholder relationships, increase philanthropic support and new fundraising opportunities.

The ideal candidate

• Governance experience gained through board, trustee, or senior leadership roles.

• Expertise in fundraising, philanthropy, donor engagement, sponsorship, or advancement programmes.

• Experience in marketing, brand strategy, communications, public relations, or digital engagement.

• Strong networks across the business, philanthropic, health, research, or not-for-profit sectors.

• Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to long-term organisational growth.

• A commitment to good governance principles and the purpose of the Foundation.

Previous governance experience is desirable; however, we also welcome expressions of interest from emerging directors who can demonstrate strong leadership capability and relevant professional expertise.

What we offer

As an AMRF board trustee, you will have the opportunity to:

• Support the advancement of life-changing medical research.

• Contribute to an organisation with a respected 70-year legacy and reputation.

• Help shape fundraising and engagement strategies that enable greater investment in research.

• Work with a passionate and accomplished board committed to making a measurable difference.

• Expand your governance experience while contributing to a purpose-driven organisation.

Diversity of thought and experience

AMRF is committed to building a board that reflects a diversity of skills, perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. We encourage applications from candidates of all ages, genders, ethnicities, cultures, and professional backgrounds who share our commitment to progressing medical research and improving health outcomes.

Commitment

This is a voluntary board trustee position. The Board currently meets five times a year, with additional involvement in committee work and strategic discussions as required.

Join us

This is an opportunity to use your governance, fundraising, and marketing expertise to help shape the future of medical research in New Zealand and fund progress that will improve the lives of generations to come.

Please send a covering letter and your governance CV to Sue Brewster, sue.brewster@medicalresearch.org.nz.