Strategic Policy Lead — Shape Waipā's Future (Flexible)

Join Our Team; Te Awamutu; Hybrid; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and life insurance

Flexible working arrangements

Local staff discounts

Offices in Cambridge and Te Awamutu

Collaborative team environment

Meaningful work contributing to the Wa

Job summary

Waipā District Council is seeking a Strategic Policy Advisor to shape future directions, working across long-term planning, policy reviews and community engagement from our Cambridge base with regular collaboration at Te Awamutu. You will translate complex information into practical recommendations for decision-makers.

You will bring 3–5 years in policy/strategy, strong research and stakeholder engagement skills, and a solid understanding of local government frameworks.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years' experience in strategic management, policy development, project management or a related field.
• Strong research, analysis, report writing and project management skills.
• Experience developing policy and providing strategic advice, ideally within local government or another complex environment.
• A sound understanding of the Local Government Act 2002 and broader legislative requirements.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, consultation, negotiation and facilitation skills.
• The ability to communicate complex information clearly to a range of audiences.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities, risks and deadlines.
• Political awareness, sound judgement and the ability to navigate complex issues with maturity and fairness.
• Local government experience would be highly desirable, as would a postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline.

Responsibilities

• Leading and coordinating strategic projects, including the Long Term Plan, Annual Plans, strategies, bylaws and policy reviews.
• Providing strategic policy analysis and advice to senior leaders, the Executive team and elected members.
• Identifying strategic issues and opportunities and developing recommendations for Council's response.
• Undertaking research and analysis to support evidence-based decision making.
• Leading cross-functional project teams and managing scope, budgets, risks, timelines and delivery.
• Preparing high-quality reports, submissions and advice for Council, committees and governance groups.
• Leading consultation and community engagement, working alongside the Communications and Engagement team.
• Building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders and navigating complex or potentially contentious issues.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Communication

Research

Policy development

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Policy advice

Local government knowledge

Facilitation

Organisational skills

Political awareness

Education

Postgraduate qualification

Job description

Waipā District Council is seeking a Strategic Policy Advisor to shape future directions, working across long-term planning, policy reviews and community engagement from our Cambridge base with regular collaboration at Te Awamutu. You will translate complex information into practical recommendations for decision-makers.

You will bring 3–5 years in policy/strategy, strong research and stakeholder engagement skills, and a solid understanding of local government frameworks.