Strategic & District Planning Team Leader

About the role

This pivotal position blends people management with technical planning. You will lead a team of planning specialists to develop and implement the Council’s resource management, land‑use policy and strategic spatial planning initiatives across the district.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of planning specialists.
• Develop, implement and review resource management and land‑use policies.
• Oversee District Plan development and strategic spatial planning projects.
• Provide high‑quality, timely advice on policy and planning matters.
• Engage with community groups and iwi to ensure inclusive decision‑making.
• Manage projects, budgets and timelines to meet council objectives.
• Stay current with legislative frameworks and proposed changes to natural resource management laws.

Required profile

• Minimum seven years’ experience in planning or resource‑management policy roles.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in planning, environmental management or a related field.
• Proven ability to lead policy, district‑plan and spatial‑plan development.
• Strong community and iwi engagement experience.
• Excellent project‑management capabilities.
• Comprehensive understanding of the legislative framework for natural resource management.
• Ability to inspire, lead and develop staff within a local‑government context.
• Effective communication, analytical and critical‑thinking skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary package.
• Relocation allowance.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Free parking.
• Sick leave from day one.
• Opportunity to work in a small, energetic team within a community‑focused organisation.