The Role

We are on the lookout for an experienced and forward-thinking leader to take responsibility for a diverse portfolio of Council services, assets and commercial activities.

As a member of Council's Senior Leadership Team, you will provide strategic direction and leadership across a broad portfolio, balancing commercial opportunities, operational performance, community outcomes and long-term financial sustainability. Reporting to the Chief Executive, your portfolio includes Property, Airport, Waste Operations and Theatre to ensure the delivery of key community outcomes for the Timaru District.

As the General Manager Commercial, you will be responsible for offering strategic guidance and operational oversight to vital Council operations. This position entails significant strategic leadership duties, requiring effective communication of organisational goals, health and safety practices and priorities.

Key Responsibilities:

· Provide strategic and commercial leadership across a diverse portfolio, driving financial sustainability, revenue opportunities and effective asset utilisation.

· Oversee the performance and management of Council's commercial properties, the Richard Pearse Airport, waste management, the Theatre Royal Timaru.

· Drive financial performance, risk management, contract governance and operational excellence across the Group.

· Communicate organisational objectives, health and safety practices, priorities, and individual development plans for direct reports.

· Foster a spirit of unity and teamwork among all staff.

What you need to bring:

· Proven senior leadership experience in related environments.

· Strong financial and commercial management capabilities, including budgeting, investment decisions and revenue optimisation.

· Experience overseeing complex assets, contracts, capital projects and operational services.

· Strong people leadership skills, with the ability to inspire teams and drive organisational performance.

· Strong understanding of local government operations and legislative requirements.

· Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

· Ability to drive change, innovation, and continuous improvement.

· Commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing in the workplace.

· Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and influence outcomes.

This is an opportunity to take on a diverse and influential leadership role within your local authority. If you are ready to bring your strategic leadership, commercial expertise and vision to this exciting opportunity, we would love to hear from you.

This is a permanent full-time role and offers 40 hours per week. Check out a copy of the position description here: https://www.timaru.govt.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/1177417/Position-Description-General-Manager-Commercial-October-2026.pdf . For further information please email us at [email protected].

You must have the right to live and work in this location to apply for this job. Applications close at 5:00pm, 22 November 2026; Applications can be registered through our career's website www.timaru.govt.nz/jobs.

*We use Pulse as our applicant tracking system, so you will receive any further recruitment-related communications from an @pulsesoftware.com email address. Please keep an eye on your inbox (including your junk/spam folder) for updates.

The District

Timaru District is a thriving and innovative community. It is the central hub for the South Island, servicing a large agricultural heartland, with a growing economy that provides the import and export gateway for primary sectors. We boast a Top 10 most loved beach in New Zealand and have access to mountains, rivers, and lakes, making Timaru an ideal destination for recreational, sporting, and cultural pursuits.

Let's not forget about that 7 minute commute to work!

The Organisation

The Timaru District Council aims to enable democratic local decision-making and action by, and on behalf of communities, to promote the social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being of its communities in the present and for the future. With around 400 staff, there are a diverse range of roles from front facing community to support and technical specialists.

www.vtdevelopment.co.nz celebrates all the things we love about living in Timaru, from our affordable houses, to our easy commute, fantastic lifestyle and our successes. Come and join the story!