Manager Policy and Planning

Job No: 100677
Location: Dunedin

  • Exciting leadership position within environmentally focused Council!
  • Play a key role in the future success of the organisation!
  • Enjoy competitive remuneration + super & fantastic professional development!
  • Relocation assistance available.

About Otago Regional Council

Otago Regional Council (ORC) was established in 1989, and is responsible for managing Otago’s land, air and water resources on behalf of the community. Council also contracts passenger transport services, plays a role in transport planning, works to reduce the risk of flooding, and leads the planning for and response to natural disasters to help keep people and properties safe.

About the Opportunity

Otago Regional Council now has an opportunity for a full-time Manager Policy and Planning to join their team in Dunedin. 

Reporting to the Director Policy, Planning and Resource Management, this position will see you primarily responsible for leading the Policy and Planning Team. You will oversee the development of policies, strategies and plans, and contribute to a range of projects across the organisation.

More specifically, your key responsibilities will include:

  • Leading and influencing the effective and efficient production and review of Council’s RMA policies, plans and strategies;
  • Providing advice to the Director on the implications of ORC policy, plans and strategies, as well as on discussion documents and policies of other agencies and government bodies, and of proposed legislative changes;
  • Ensuring that Council is provided with robust technical advice that reduces opportunities for litigation;
  • Coaching, mentoring, supporting and enabling staff to achieve agreed outcomes, and grow and develop in their roles;
  • Working effectively with the Stakeholder Engagement team to ensure fit for purpose engagement plans are developed and implemented; and
  • Participating in public forums as appropriate.

For a full list of duties, view the position description.

About You 

Otago Regional Council is seeking candidates who possess tertiary qualifications in Planning, Public Policy, Management, Social Science or other relevant discipline, along with demonstrated experience in strategy, planning and policy development processes. Ideally you’ll have an NZPI membership, or be eligible to attain this.

Due to the nature of the role, familiarity with the local government environment will be key, as will the flexibility and agility to take on new responsibility and lead organisational change. Proven success in delegating and leading teams to achieve results is essential, with a particular focus on coaching, mentoring supporting and enabling staff to succeed. You'll be a transformational leader who can strike a balance between firm and inclusive.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills will be pivotal to your success in this position. This includes high emotional intelligence and the ability to influence, broker and negotiate to achieve win-win outcomes. You'll be well versed in developing strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders of all levels and all walks of life. 

A collaborative approach is needed in this role, as you work across the organisation as well as participating in community engagement and outreach. In addition, it's important you liaise with community members and other Councils with professionalism and respect at all times.

About the Benefits

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a passionate team of people who are committed to improving outcomes for the environment and the people of Otago. A genuine opportunity to make a new role your own, you will be able to make a tangible contribution to the success of a future focused organisation.

In return for your hard work and dedication, you will receive an attractive base salary plus super! You'll also benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, with Council encouraging its staff to attend conferences, regular training, special interest groups and national forums. In addition, there is potential for study assistance as well as relocation assistance if required.

For further information on the Otago Regional Council, visit www.orc.govt.nz.

Ready to tackle a new challenge in your management career? Join this environmentally dedicated Council - Apply Now!

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