Chief Executive, Water Services Transformation

Sheffield Group; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 280,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

Sheffield Group – Christchurch, South Island is seeking a Chief Executive to lead a new joint water organisation (JWO) in Aotearoa. The role oversees establishment, governance, and readiness for operation from 1 July 2027, reporting to the Board and building the leadership team and culture.

The CE will engage with Mana Whenua, regulators, and communities, guiding strategic direction while shaping an enduring public service in Timaru and Mackenzie districts.

Qualifications

• Senior leaders with experience in public accountability or regulated environments.
• Experience leading the establishment or transformation of complex organisations.
• Strong stakeholder and board engagement capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and delivery of the Establishment Plan to achieve full operational readiness by the target date.
• Stand up the organisation's operating model including systems, governance, and organisational structure.
• Manage financial planning, budgeting and reporting through establishment and early operations.
• Lead transfer of staff, assets, data and contracts from shareholding councils to the new entity.
• Collaborate with the Board to set strategic direction and maintain clear governance–management boundaries.
• Ensure compliance with Taumata Arowai, the Commerce Commission, and the Department of Internal Affairs.
• Build a capable, values-led leadership team and an culture reflecting the communities served.
• Maintain trusted relationships with Shareholder Councils, Mana Whenua, regulators, customers, and the public.

Skills

Senior leadership

Governance

Stakeholder engagement

Public sector experience

Transformation leadership

Job description

Sheffield Group – Christchurch, South Island is seeking a Chief Executive to lead a new joint water organisation (JWO) in Aotearoa. The role oversees establishment, governance, and readiness for operation from 1 July 2027, reporting to the Board and building the leadership team and culture.

The CE will engage with Mana Whenua, regulators, and communities, guiding strategic direction while shaping an enduring public service in Timaru and Mackenzie districts.