- Lead an independent statutory Forum working for the future of the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui-ā-Toi
- Operate at the highest levels of government, iwi leadership, and local councils in a highly political and complex environment
- Champion the protection and restoration of one of Aotearoa’s most significant natural taonga
Beyond Recruitment is pleased to be partnering with Auckland Council to fill this opportunity.
He angitūtanga: The opportunity
The Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui-ā-Toi is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most treasured and most challenged ecosystems. The Hauraki Gulf Forum is the statutory body charged with championing its protection and restoration — bringing together Ministers of the Crown, local councils, tangata whenua, and communities.
We are seeking a highly skilled and politically astute leader to serve as Executive Officer to the Forum. While employed through Auckland Council, you will act independently and on behalf of the Forum and its members. This role is uniquely positioned at the intersection of environmental leadership, governance, and political strategy.
In this role, you will:
- Work directly with the Forum’s Co-Chairs, supporting them to deliver on the Forum’s ambitious agenda.
- Lead the development of annual work programmes and statutory reports to Parliament.
- Navigate a complex and highly political environment, engaging with Ministers, Mayors, Iwi leaders, and stakeholders.
- Oversee all operational aspects of the Forum — from finance and communications to stakeholder engagement and project delivery.
- Champion the Forum’s vision for the restoration and long-term wellbeing of the Hauraki Gulf.
He kōrero mōu: About you
You will bring significant senior leadership experience (ideally 15+ years) in a political, environmental, or governance-focused setting. You will be highly adept at building trust and credibility with diverse stakeholders, including Ministers, Councils, and tangata whenua. Your ability to operate in complexity, exercise sound judgement, and communicate with impact will be critical.
You will also have:
- A relevant tertiary qualification (e.g. law, resource management, planning, strategy, science, or mātauranga Māori).
- Deep understanding of te ao Māori, te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the practice of kaitiakitanga.
- Proven skills in project delivery, stakeholder management, and financial oversight.
- Strong political acumen, with the ability to navigate sensitive and high-profile issues.
Why this role matters
This is not a typical council position — it is a role of independence, influence, and responsibility. You will be at the heart of shaping how the Forum advocates for and delivers on its statutory purpose: to protect and enhance the Hauraki Gulf for current and future generations.
If you are motivated by complex challenges, inspired by the chance to work across political and cultural boundaries, and committed to the health of one of Aotearoa’s greatest natural taonga, we encourage you to apply.
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
The role is hosted by Auckland Council through a Service Level Agreement with the Forum. Auckland Council is the largest local government council across Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people and contributing towards making Tāmaki Makaurau a world-class city.
We offer a range of employee benefits and proudly support flexible working options where possible.
You’ll have access to a range of fantastic Auckland Council benefits, EAP services, an Oranga Day and discounted Leisure Centre membership and a range of other partnership discounts!
View a snapshot of some of our employee benefits here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bk7WGJT_t7vY7iKAiqd0YPS0C73-ZTtM/view?usp=sharing
You can find the position description here
We are a diverse organisation – we value diversity in our thinking, and we can only achieve that with a diverse team!
Ehara taku toa, he takitahi, he toa takitini - My success is not mine alone, but the success of many!
Tono Mai: Apply Now!
For a confidential discussion contact Kris Attewell @ Beyond Recruitment 021 435712 or email kris.attewell@beyond.co.nz
Applications close: Friday 26th September 5pm
Job# 130827
Please note:
- Qualification Checks will be conducted along with other relevant pre-employment checks required for employment with Auckland Council.
#workingforauckland
