Connected Communities Lead & Coach

About the role

The Connected Communities Lead & Coach will head the Whau and Waitākere Ranges Local Board teams, guiding eight direct reports to deliver library and community development services across West Auckland. This senior position oversees the creation of Te Hono, a new library and community hub, and serves as the primary liaison with the Lopdell Trust.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and coach staff across the Whau and Waitākere Ranges, building strong community relationships.
• Maintain and expand the partnership with the Lopdell Trust.
• Strategically direct the delivery of community engagement, arts, and library experiences.
• Support talent recruitment, team development, learning, and performance for direct reports.
• Develop and nurture relationships with Local Board members, elected officials, and key stakeholders.
• Provide high‑quality advice to Local Boards and improve outcomes for local communities.
• Oversee the establishment of Te Hono library and community hub, scheduled to open mid‑2027.
• Ensure reliable operational delivery through strong stakeholder collaboration.

Required profile

• Proven people‑leadership experience with a focus on staff engagement and wellbeing.
• Commitment to embedding mātauranga Māori in service delivery.
• Strong collaboration, relationship‑building, and inspirational coaching abilities.
• Sharp political acumen and solid financial literacy.
• Confidence handling staff and customer challenges.
• Operational problem‑solving skills with a strategic outlook.
• Experience leading distributed teams, stakeholder management, planning, and budgeting.
• Background in library leadership or community services.

Required skills

What we offer

• Full‑time permanent role with travel across the West Region and CBD.
• Opportunity to shape major community hubs and library services.
• Supportive environment that values Māori knowledge and community impact.