Governance Advisor – LGOIMA

About the role

Environment Southland is seeking a Governance Advisor to lead the management of its obligations under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (LGOIMA) and the Privacy Act 2020. You will work closely with staff, senior leaders and elected members to ensure information and privacy requests are handled lawfully, consistently and within statutory timeframes.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate end‑to‑end handling of LGOIMA and Privacy Act requests.
• Provide clear, practical advice to staff, leaders and elected members on information and privacy obligations.
• Support the preparation of high‑quality, defensible responses to complex or sensitive requests.
• Manage relationships with the Ombudsman, Privacy Commissioner and legal advisers.
• Maintain and improve systems for tracking, reporting and proactive release of information.
• Identify trends, risks and opportunities for continuous improvement in transparency and governance practice.
• Contribute to a strong culture of integrity, trust and professionalism across the organisation.

Required profile

• Experience working with legislation (legal background or practical legislative experience).
• Background in local government, central government or the wider public sector.
• Strong writing, analysis and organisational abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple workstreams and meet statutory deadlines.
• Political awareness and confidence to engage with senior leaders and elected members.
• Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism and public trust.

Required skills

What we offer

• A meaningful role that supports democratic accountability and public confidence.
• A supportive and collaborative workplace culture.
• Opportunities to build specialist expertise and professional capability.
• Flexible working options and a strong focus on wellbeing.
• The chance to make a real difference for Southland and its communities.