Strategic Project Manager - Climate Change & Resilience
Whakatane, New Zealand
Reference: 6831350
The people at Whakatāne District Council love what we do because we do it for others, and that feels good. We work hard and we know it's important to stop and play too. We're on a learning journey because we know we can always do better, and we know we're better together. Will you come on that journey with us? In return, you'll get access to a range of staff benefits including flexible working arrangements, an extra week's annual leave and free or discounted access to our community facilities. You'll never be more than half an hour away from rivers, lakes, forests, beaches and great walks - most are just on your doorstep. We love this place, and you will too.
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
We're looking for a strategic leader to help shape a resilient, low-carbon future for Whakatāne District. As our Strategic Project Manager - Climate and Resilience, you'll lead the delivery of Our Climate Strategy, driving organisation-wide adaptation and resilience outcomes. This role combines climate expertise, strategic thinking, and project leadership to embed climate response across Council planning, policy, and investment decisions.
You'll be our principal advisor on climate resilience, translating national direction into local action, influencing decisions at every level, and building strong partnerships with iwi, community groups, and government agencies. Your work will help ensure our district is informed, prepared, and future focused.
Ko wai koe | About you
You're an experienced professional with a strong background in climate adaptation, resilience, or strategic policy. You bring deep technical knowledge, excellent analytical skills, and the confidence to provide expert advice to senior leaders and elected members. You thrive in complex environments and know how to turn strategy into action.
What You'll Bring
Ngā whaipainga |Our values
If you're passionate about making a tangible impact and thrive in a strategic, collaborative environment, we'd love to hear from you.
We're looking to recruit someone who can join us in the new year, ideally starting in February or March 2026.
If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Lou Hunt, Manager Climate Change & Resilience on 07 306 0500 or apply now via our Careers site.
Applications Close: 01 Dec 2025
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Reference: 6831350
- Join a fun, supportive team
- Five weeks' annual leave
- Toitū te Kotahitanga - Better Together
The people at Whakatāne District Council love what we do because we do it for others, and that feels good. We work hard and we know it's important to stop and play too. We're on a learning journey because we know we can always do better, and we know we're better together. Will you come on that journey with us? In return, you'll get access to a range of staff benefits including flexible working arrangements, an extra week's annual leave and free or discounted access to our community facilities. You'll never be more than half an hour away from rivers, lakes, forests, beaches and great walks - most are just on your doorstep. We love this place, and you will too.
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
We're looking for a strategic leader to help shape a resilient, low-carbon future for Whakatāne District. As our Strategic Project Manager - Climate and Resilience, you'll lead the delivery of Our Climate Strategy, driving organisation-wide adaptation and resilience outcomes. This role combines climate expertise, strategic thinking, and project leadership to embed climate response across Council planning, policy, and investment decisions.
You'll be our principal advisor on climate resilience, translating national direction into local action, influencing decisions at every level, and building strong partnerships with iwi, community groups, and government agencies. Your work will help ensure our district is informed, prepared, and future focused.
Ko wai koe | About you
You're an experienced professional with a strong background in climate adaptation, resilience, or strategic policy. You bring deep technical knowledge, excellent analytical skills, and the confidence to provide expert advice to senior leaders and elected members. You thrive in complex environments and know how to turn strategy into action.
What You'll Bring
- Proven experience leading strategic climate or resilience programmes in local or central government.
- Strong understanding of adaptation, and resilience frameworks.
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to influence across technical, policy, and community domains.
Ngā whaipainga |Our values
- We're always learning and improving - Toitū te Taumata
- We're passionate and proud - Toitū te Mauri Ora
- We work as one team - Toitū te Mahi Tahi
- We put people at the heart of everything we do - Toitū te Tangata
- We care about our environment - Toitū te Taiao
If you're passionate about making a tangible impact and thrive in a strategic, collaborative environment, we'd love to hear from you.
We're looking to recruit someone who can join us in the new year, ideally starting in February or March 2026.
If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Lou Hunt, Manager Climate Change & Resilience on 07 306 0500 or apply now via our Careers site.
Applications Close: 01 Dec 2025
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