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People & Culture Facilitator (Volunteer Role)

About

People & Culture Facilitator (Volunteer Role)

  • Strategic People & Culture role in a mission-driven global organisation
  • Live and work on board a hospital ship transforming lives through surgical care
  • Unique opportunity to grow professionally while serving others

Are you passionate about people, purpose, and making a tangible difference? This is your chance to bring your HR expertise into an environment where culture, community, and compassion come first. Join Mercy Ships and contribute to life-changing work that extends far beyond the shore.

About the role

Mercy Ships operates the world’s largest charity hospital ships, delivering free, life-changing surgeries and medical training to people in need. As a People & Culture Facilitator, you’ll play a key role in supporting and developing the 400–640 diverse crew from over 60 countries who make this mission possible.

Reporting to the Ship People & Culture Director, you’ll be immersed in the heart of shipboard life—facilitating orientation, supporting crew development, maintaining essential HR processes, and helping shape a positive, vibrant on-board culture. Your work will touch all aspects of the crew experience, from housing and onboarding to ongoing engagement.

This is a strategic, hands-on opportunity, ideal for HR professionals ready to serve with purpose and agility in a dynamic, multicultural environment.

What we’re looking for

  • A minimum of 2 years’ post-graduate professional experience in HR, people operations, or organisational support
  • Strong interpersonal skills and a passion for community-building
  • A proactive, servant-hearted mindset with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  • Professional resilience, high attention to detail, and adaptability in a fast-changing environment
  • Experience with HRIS or people systems; strong Excel and tech skills
  • A relevant degree or equivalent mix of study and work experience
  • Humble, purpose-driven leadership in our faith-based community, upholding the mission and values of Mercy Ships

What’s in it for you

  • Be part of a global movement bringing hope and healing to those who need it most
  • Grow professionally through cross-cultural experience and unique leadership challenges
  • Live and serve on board a state-of-the-art hospital ship alongside passionate volunteers from around the world
  • Deepen your impact while building lasting connections and memories
  • A truly rewarding way to contribute your skills beyond borders

About Mercy Ships

Mercy Ships is an international non-profit organisation that uses hospital ships to deliver free, world-class healthcare services, capacity-building, and sustainable development to those without access. For over 40 years, we’ve brought hope and healing to more than 2.8 million people within Africa.

How to apply or explore additional People and Culture opportunities

Start your journey of purpose today. To learn more or express your interest, visit https://mercyships.org.nz/volunteer_job/people-and-culture or contact Fiona Hunt-Baker on (09) 950 4303.

Enquire Now

Posted on 30 June 2025