TEAM MANAGER - CRISIS CAFE

• Permanent, Full time (40 hours per week)
  Lead with heart. Hold space with purpose.
  At Ember, we walk alongside people, not ahead of them. We believe in the power of connection, peer support, and creating spaces where people feel seen, safe, and supported.
  We’re looking for a compassionate, values-led Team Manager to lead our Crisis Café – a warm, inclusive, and whānau-style space for people experiencing mental health distress or needing support outside of traditional services.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A current registered practicing certificate in one of the following fields: Occupational Therapy, DAPAANZ, Counselling, Social Work, Nursing OR Leadership experience in mental health, addiction, or peer-led services.
• A deep understanding of person-led, recovery-focused, and trauma-informed practice.
• A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, equity, and culturally safe care.
• Confidence navigating complexity, holding space in distress, and supporting others to do the same.
• Lived experience of mental distress, addiction, or recovery is respected and welcomed.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to handle confidential information with sensitivity and maintain professional boundaries.
• Proficient computer skills for documentation and data management purposes.
• Demonstrated commitment to ongoing personal and professional growth.
• Full NZ Driver’s License
• Valid/Current work visa, residency, or citizenship
  Don’t meet every single requirement? We still encourage you to apply — you might be just the right person for the role.

ROLE | NGA MAHI

As the Team Manager for our Crisis Cafe Service, you will play a vital role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the service. Your primary responsibility will be to lead and support a team of Peer Support Workers, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to our tangata whaiora.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Leading, mentoring, and supporting a multidisciplinary team of peer support workers, clinicians, and community connectors.
• Ensuring the café is a calm, safe, and welcoming environment where people can access support without judgment.
• Building strong relationships with tangata whaiora, whānau, community services, and local health networks.
• Supporting reflective practice and fostering a culture of wellbeing, learning, and shared leadership.
• Managing day-to-day operations, risk, and reporting while staying true to our kaupapa.