Head of Parks Planning & Community Growth

Recreation Aotearoa | Te Whai Oranga; Hamilton; Hybrid; NZD 125,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working policy

Professional development

Wellbeing days

Health insurance (Unimed)

Annual health checks

Discounts at local businesses

Job summary

Hamilton City Council, within the Customer and Community Group, is seeking a strategic leader to head Parks Planning and guide the growth of our parks, reserves, and open space network.

You will lead a high-performing team, shape planning policy, respond to legislative reforms, and build strong relationships with stakeholders to deliver lasting benefits for current and future generations in Hamilton.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years' experience in a senior role specialising in parks and recreation planning, urban planning, policy development, or related field.
• Broad-based strategic view of issues and longer-term implications.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Political acumen and risk mitigation ability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to present complex information clearly.
• Commitment to community engagement and public service.
• Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and related protocols.
• Experience with Resource Management Act, Reserves Act, Local Government Act; interpret policy changes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing team in parks planning.
• Provide expert planning advice to protect, enhance, and grow parks and open spaces.
• Guide strategic direction and respond to legislative reform and planning framework changes.
• Build relationships with internal and external stakeholders to deliver lasting community benefits.

Skills

Leadership

Team development

Stakeholder management

Political acumen

Communication

Community engagement

Te Tiriti knowledge

LG Act experience

Financial management

Time management / invoicing

Education

Tertiary qualification in resource management or planning

Job description

Hamilton City Council, within the Customer and Community Group, is seeking a strategic leader to head Parks Planning and guide the growth of our parks, reserves, and open space network.

You will lead a high-performing team, shape planning policy, respond to legislative reforms, and build strong relationships with stakeholders to deliver lasting benefits for current and future generations in Hamilton.