Chief Executive Officer - Fixed term two years
South Wairarapa District Council is looking for a new Chief Executive Officer to replace the incumbent who is retiring. This is a unique opportunity to provide strategic leadership and drive organisational performance in an exceptional location.
The CEO is responsible for the overall leadership, management and performance of the organisation, supporting and working alongside elected members to deliver positive outcomes for our community.
With Government plans for local government reform and potential amalgamation, the Council is operating in a period of significant uncertainty. It is highly likely the organisation will experience change over the next two years. As a result, we are seeking a leader who can hit the ground running and provide strong, experienced leadership from day one.
The CEO reports directly to the Mayor and Councillors and, in a time of flux, this relationship is fundamental to the success of the Council.
Key responsibilities:
Provide strategic leadership, ensuring the Council is well positioned to navigate a changing local government environment while delivering Council and community priorities.
Lead and inspire the Strategic Leadership Team and the staff generally, fostering a high-performing, collaborative and values-driven culture.
Work with the Mayor and Councillors to develop Long Term and Annual Plans, then deliver the plans and budgets, ensuring financial sustainability and prudent stewardship of resources.
Manage the overall operations and performance of the Council, including organisational capability, financial management and resource allocation.
Build and maintain a strong, collaborative relationship with iwi, community leaders, government agencies and key stakeholders.
Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations and governance frameworks.
As required, represent the Council at community meetings, acting as a trusted and credible ambassador for the organisation.
What we're looking for
Ideally, you’ll bring previous Chief Executive experience or a track record operating at an equivalent executive level, coupled with a deep understanding of local government. Knowledge of local and wider Wairarapa issues, and an appreciation of the needs of small rural communities, will be highly regarded. In addition, you’ll have
Experience leading, developing and inspiring high-performing teams;
Experience in organisational change;
Proven ability to navigate the complexities of local government together with a deep understanding of public sector governance and statutory frameworks;
Commercial, financial and business acumen, including experience managing significant budgets and organisational resources;
Exceptional stakeholder relationship management skills, with experience working effectively with diverse stakeholder groups;
Some familiarity with Te Ao Māori;
Strong communication skills;
Experience balancing strategic leadership with operational delivery and organisational performance;
A genuine commitment to community wellbeing, public service, and sustainable outcomes;
Relevant tertiary qualifications in business, finance, management, or a related discipline.
About us
South Wairarapa District Council is a territorial authority responsible for the management of the South Wairarapa district, located at the southern tip of the North Island and approximately one hour’s drive from Wellington. With a population of around 12,000 residents, the district is a predominantly rural, encompassing the three main towns of Featherston, Greytown and Martinborough, where the Council office is located.
We are committed to creating a thriving, sustainable and resilient community, enhancing the quality of life for residents through manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga. Our partnership with mana whenua is important to us.
This is an opportunity to lead the organisation through a period of change and help shape the future of South Wairarapa. If you’re an experienced, strategic and community-focused leader who can provide strong leadership in a changing environment, we’d love to hear from you. To view the Position Description, please visit our Careers page at swdc.govt.nz. You’ll also find details about how to get in touch with our People and Culture team, if you have any questions about the role.
Applications close at 5pm on Thursday 26 November.
Tangata ako ana i te kāenga, te tūranga ki te marae, tau ana.
A person nurtured in the community contributes strongly to society.