Principal Citizen & Customer Engagement Specialist

About the role

The Principal Citizen & Customer Engagement Specialist will lead high‑profile engagement programmes that give Aucklanders a genuine voice in shaping the future of Tāmaki Makaurau. Working within the Citizen Engagement Team, you will partner with senior leaders, elected members and diverse communities to design and deliver strategic consultation initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Design, advise and deliver high‑quality engagement and consultation programmes across a diverse portfolio.
• Provide trusted strategic advice to senior leaders, elected members and project teams on engagement design and delivery.
• Lead the Auckland Conversations Programme and other flagship engagement initiatives.
• Manage major regional consultations, such as the Long‑Term Plan, in line with Council policies.
• Champion best‑practice engagement and promote the Council’s unique governance model.
• Build strong partnerships with communities, internal and external stakeholders.
• Lead continuous‑improvement initiatives to strengthen engagement capability across the organisation.

Required profile

• Strategic engagement professional with experience navigating complex environments.
• Proven ability to build trusted relationships and influence senior decision‑makers.
• Comfortable working directly with diverse communities to ensure inclusive participation.
• Strong communication and facilitation skills, with a track record of delivering meaningful outcomes.

Required skills