Enjoy working with people, navigating processes and keeping the details on track?

Bring your eye for detail, sound judgement and relationship-building skills to a role at the heart of local democracy. As a Governance Advisor you’ll be supporting the meetings and processes that underpin local decision-making. You’ll work closely with elected members and staff, bringing sound judgement, attention to detail and a collaborative approach to a varied role serving the communities of Tairāwhiti.

Mō te tūranga | About the position    
As a Governance Advisor, you will be responsible for ensuring Council and committee meetings operate in line with legislative requirements, standing orders, and best practices. You will also provide governance advice, administrative support, and meeting coordination to ensure high standards of decision-making. Your commitment to Treaty partnership will anchor your work, reflecting the values at the heart of Gisborne District Council’s mission and shaping a more resilient, prosperous region.

Ngā Mahi ngā Takohanga Matua rānei | Duties include: 

·        Provide governance advice and meeting support to elected members, committee directors, and the Chief Executive. Ensure Council and committee agendas and reports comply with legislative requirements

·        Assist in developing the governance capability of elected members and staff

·        Take accurate and timely minutes for Council and Committee meetings

·        Coordinate and prepare meeting schedules, agendas, and public notices

·        Maintain and update governance records and action sheets

·        Support the development and quality of Council reports

Ngā Pūkenga me Ngā Wheako e Hiahia ana | Skills and experience required:  

·        Business Administration Certificate or relevant technical skills acquired through experience

·        Strong communication skills, both verbal and written

·        Proven ability to build and maintain professional relationships

·        Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

·        Knowledge of the Local Government Act and governance processes

·        Strong problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple priorities

Ngā Huanga | Benefits

·        Work-life balance: Flexible hours to help you manage personal commitments and maintain wellbeing

·        Wellbeing first: EAP, health checks & optional access to our Fitness Passport package

·        Whanaungatanga: Waiata group, Te Reo kawhe kōrero, staff events

·        Perks: Modern office, eye exams, Southern Cross discounts, retail perks

·        Growth: A values-led environment where your development is supported

·        Location: Live and work in stunning Gisborne – close to the beach, rivers and bush

He aha ngā painga o te kaunihera | Why work for Gisborne District Council

Gisborne District Council is one of only six unitary authorities in Aotearoa, meaning we deliver both district and regional council mahi. We’re committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi, weaving te ao Māori into everything we do, and making a real difference for the people and places of Tairāwhiti.

Our mahi is diverse, from looking after roads, water, rubbish and recycling, to protecting our environment, supporting community facilities like pools, parks and libraries, and shaping the region’s future through planning and governance. With over 500 staff, we’re a team that’s passionate about making Tairāwhiti a thriving place to live, work and play.

Me pēhea te tono mai | How to Apply

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your application via our careers page: www.gdc.govt.nz/council/careers – Job Vacancies.

For any questions or further information, email [email protected].  

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and the role will be filled once the right candidate is identified.

To view the full job description, please see the job attachments section on the careers page.