Social Responsibility Manager

About the role

Ghella is seeking a Social Responsibility Manager to lead stakeholder, sustainability, environmental and social outcomes for the Herne Bay Collector project in Auckland. Reporting to the Project Director, you will guide a multidisciplinary team and ensure the project meets its social and environmental commitments.

Key responsibilities

• Report to the Project Director and manage three direct reports.
• Lead the Social Responsibility team covering stakeholder, sustainability, environmental and social outcomes.
• Provide strategic direction and take the lead on stakeholder management.
• Implement stakeholder and social outcomes management plans and project‑specific social responsibility strategies.
• Support the Environmental Lead in implementing the Environmental Management System in line with legislation, regulation and contractual requirements.
• Support the Sustainability Lead in implementing the Sustainability Management System aligned with Ghella’s targets.
• Engage with client, local authorities, Mana Whenua and communities, including managing third‑party agreements.
• Respond to high‑reputation risk and environmental complaints, ensuring resolution.
• Manage budget, forecasting and financial reporting.
• Oversee collection, analysis and reporting of performance data for internal and regulatory purposes.

Required profile

• Degree in Public Relations, Communication or equivalent; IAP2 certification advantageous.
• Minimum 8 years experience in the stakeholder/community sector, preferably on large infrastructure or construction projects in densely populated suburbs.
• Proven experience developing and implementing stakeholder management plans and systems.
• Working knowledge of construction environmental requirements and sustainability opportunities.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize, meet strict deadlines and work under pressure with minimal supervision.
• Experience managing teams and building strong stakeholder relationships at all levels.
• Clear, concise written and verbal communication skills.
• Computer literacy with ability to operate and maintain information within management systems.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on a legacy infrastructure project improving water quality in Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour.
• Join Ghella’s values‑driven culture focused on safety, people, environment, innovation and ethics.
• Exposure to large‑scale construction projects and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Competitive remuneration and professional development opportunities.