Community & Events Coordinator

About Ministry of Awesome

Ministry of Awesome is a key supporter of high-growth startups and innovators in Aotearoa New Zealand. Based in Ōtautahi Christchurch, it provides founders across the country with advisory services, expert mentorship, a lively community, and strategic connections to assist with market validation, growth traction, capital raising, and global expansion.

The organisation facilitates startup incubation, acceleration, and capability-building initiatives, focusing on women founders, clean-energy innovators, and early-stage entrepreneurs. Collaborations with government bodies, educational institutions, investors, corporates, and other ecosystem players create enhanced pathways for founder success.

Through community events, workshops, founder programmes, and primary conferences, Ministry of Awesome brings together a network of people, knowledge, and opportunities to propel startups forward.

Role Overview

As the Community & Events Coordinator, you will play a vital role ensuring the smooth operation of the office environment while nurturing a dynamic community of founders, partners, and tenants. Your responsibilities will include coordinating diverse events both locally and nationally, managing daily operations, and fostering positive experiences whether in-person or online.

This role combines engaging with people and managing behind-the-scenes logistics, making it suitable for someone who enjoys both interpersonal connections and operational efficiency.

Key Event Responsibilities

• Plan and execute community events such as Coffee & Jam sessions.
• Coordinate founder workshops and programmes aimed at building capabilities.
• Organise community networking gatherings and partner activations.
• Manage major conferences and flagship events, including Electrify Aotearoa.

Note: The role involves travel within New Zealand.

Why This Work Matters

High-growth startups are crucial for job creation, productivity improvement, and addressing local and global challenges through innovation. Ministry of Awesome supports founders in creating ambitious and scalable companies that contribute to a resilient and future-oriented New Zealand economy.

The organisation reduces barriers for emerging founders by providing accessible practical assistance, trusted guidance, peer networks, and essential connections. This ensures that strong ideas have the chance to become globally competitive ventures, irrespective of the founders' existing networks, experience, or capital access.

Community and event efforts help establish the relationships, hands-on learning, and visibility that founders require to accelerate progress, unlock new opportunities, and maintain momentum amid startup challenges.