- Newly created Principal role with influence
- Contribute to a future by local government
- Influence central government’s reform agenda
Mō mātou | About LGNZ
Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) champions, connects and supports local government. They represent the national interests of councils.
They advocate for local government on critical issues, decode policy and make submissions. They connect members through networks, sector events and a must-attend annual conference that brings everyone together. And they lead best practice in local government as well as building council capability through learning, development and consulting.
Te āhua o te tūrunga | The nature of the position
LGNZ has established this newly created Principal Policy Advisor role to create space for senior leaders to focus on long-term strategy. Reporting to the Policy Director, you’ll take ownership of major policy projects and drive delivery across the programme of work, ensuring advocacy work is both impactful and future focused.
In this role, you’ll lead evidence-based policy analysis on some of the most pressing issues facing local government; including local government system reform, infrastructure, climate change, housing, and community wellbeing. Acting as the connector across the work programme, you’ll keep projects on track, provide strategic insight, and influence central government’s agenda by championing the priorities of councils and communities.
You’ll also play a vital leadership role within the team, working with the Policy Director to mentor and support colleagues, role modelling best practice, and providing quality assurance to lift capability. Collaboration is central to the role: you’ll connect with members, stakeholders, and partners across local and central government, building strong relationships that strengthen LGNZ’s advocacy and ensure our positions reflect the diverse voices of our councils.
Ngā tino pūkenga me wheako | Essential knowledge, skills and experiences
You’ll bring significant experience in public policy development, delivery and/or advocacy, with the project management discipline to keep complex work moving forward. Ideally, you’ll pair a solid understanding of how local government operates with central government experience and networks, giving you the ability to see the whole system and influence effectively within it.
Recognised for delivering high-quality, evidence-based advice, you’ll be a clear communicator who can distil complex issues and engage diverse audiences. Collaborative and approachable, you’ll enjoy mentoring others and role-modelling best practice to lift capability across the team.
A genuine commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Te Ao Māori, or the willingness to continue building your capability, is also important to your success in this role.
Tā mātou e tuku |What’s on offer
LGNZ takes the opinions and needs of its people seriously. LGNZ people say that they appreciate working in an environment that is supportive, flexible, creative, positive and fun. LGNZ has identified that the success of its team depends on feeling connected, appreciated, inspired, curious, optimistic and supported. These are real sentiments identified by the people who work for LGNZ.
Other benefits you will enjoy:
- 5 weeks of annual leave per annum, plus 3 additional days between Christmas and New Year
- Modern offices in the Cuba Quarter
- Subsidised health insurance
- Genuine flexible working practices
Te Tono | How to apply
This is a chance to step into a newly created, high impact role at the heart of local government advocacy. If you thrive on complexity, enjoy connecting the dots, and want to see your work make a real difference to communities, this role is for you.
Applications will be reviewed daily and close at 12 on Friday September 19. We’ll be interviewing throughout the advertising period, so if this role sparks your interest, please get in touch with Scott scott@inside.co.nz
All applications will be acknowledged electronically. Only people with the right to work in New Zealand for a period of greater than 2 years may apply for this position. For advice on obtaining a New Zealand work or residence visa visit www.immigration.govt.nz.
