Tasman District Council is a dynamic and forward‑thinking local authority serving the beautiful Tasman region. With a strong focus on community wellbeing, sustainability and future resilience, the Council plays a vital role in delivering essential services, shaping growth and making a real difference for the community, businesses and visitors alike.
Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Chief Operating Officer is a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, leading organisational performance, digital innovation, people and culture, governance, legal services, communications, and enterprise-wide risk and improvement initiatives.
The opportunity
This is a broad enterprise leadership role focused on enabling organisational performance, continuous business process improvement and strategic change across Council. Success will come through influence and collaboration. You’ll work across the organisation to support the align people, systems and processes, build capability and embed a culture of accountability, improvement and innovation. As a trusted advisor to the Chief Executive and elected members, you’ll play a key role in shaping Council’s future direction and delivering meaningful outcomes for the community.
About you
You are an experienced executive leader with a track record of delivering organisational improvement and leading change in complex environments.
You will bring:
- Proven experience leading large-scale transformation and organisational performance initiatives
- Strong leadership across people, culture, technology and business improvement
- The ability to build trusted relationships and influence across diverse stakeholder groups
- Experience operating within strong governance frameworks
- A collaborative, authentic leadership style and a commitment to developing high-performing teams
- An understanding of, or commitment to, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and meaningful iwi partnerships
Local government experience is advantageous but not essential.
Why Tasman District Council?
Join a high-performing executive team and help shape the future of one of New Zealand’s most progressive councils.
Based in the stunning Tasman region, you’ll lead meaningful change, contribute directly to community outcomes, and enjoy an executive benefits package including five weeks’ annual leave, employer superannuation of up to 8%, health insurance, and relocation assistance where applicable.
To view the job description click here
To view the candidate briefing pack click here
Applications close Sunday 4 October 2026
For further inquiries, contact Odette Shearer at odette.shearer@brannigans.co.nz, ph 021 270 8657 or Nick Carter at nick.carter@brannigans.co.nz, ph 0275 913 422.