• Have a significant impact on the future of regional development
• Be part of creating positive change

Kaipara District Council is in the business of creating a thriving community where people love to live, work and play.  Kaipara offers an enviable lifestyle in a beautiful environment where rural charm meets coastal chic. Northland's renowned white sandy beaches, extensive native forests, rolling green pastures and work-life balance make this an amazing place to live and work.  

The Kaipara district is the fastest growing district in the North Island, and there are many exciting Council-led projects and initiatives underway.  The Kaipara District Council has achieved strong trust with their communities and created a positive image of the Council locally and nationally. Like all Councils, Kaipara District Council is responding to reforms and changes in strategic direction which has given rise to new opportunities.

They are now searching for a GM of Planning & Development who is a strong people leader and business partner, capable of taking a broad view of the organisation and all its stakeholders. This role, reporting to the CEO, will oversee and lead the Council's Building Services, Resource Consents and Planning teams to ensure efficiency, compliance and strategic alignment. This is a significant portfolio leading a busy team that has with a strong level of public interface.

Genuinely celebrating diversity of thought, perspectives and expression, Kaipara District Council believes in creating a space where people can feel like they belong. This forms an integral part of the employee value proposition which attracts and retains good people to the region. To that end, there is flexibility regarding location but being visible in the offices is paramount.

You will be responsible for:

• Overseeing and leading the Resources Consents function ensuring all relevant compliance
• Leading RMA objections and appeals through the Environment Court, High Court and Court of Appeal
• Overseeing the Building Services function ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation
• Steering the team through the changing landscape regarding resource management and building
• Overseeing the District Plan development ensuring consistency across all relevant policies
• Cultivating a mindset of continuous improvement to ensure public interfacing processes are efficient and fit for purpose
• Leadership of a talented team with high delivery expectations

Your background will include:

• Significant experience at a strategic senior leadership level
• A relevant tertiary qualification and sound knowledge of Resource Management Act, Building Act and other pertinent NZ legislation
• Deep understanding of council processes and experience of manoeuvring comfortably through complex policy, organisational and political dynamics
• Ability and commitment to drive efficiency across each area of this portfolio
• Proven ability to lead, influence and motivate a team to foster a positive culture

This role is offering a highly competitive salary, flexible working arrangements and a range of employee benefits.

How to apply