Event Development Manager

Role overview

This fixed-term Event Development Manager position sits with Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Auckland’s cultural, events, and destination agency. The role supports Auckland Council’s wider mission by helping deliver major events that strengthen the city’s profile, economy, and community life. The assignment runs until January 2027 and is based in Auckland, New Zealand.

What you will do

In this role, you will partner with event stakeholders to help deliver high-quality events across Auckland. A major part of the job is coordinating programmes, maintaining strong relationships, and working closely with partners to create outcomes that support sustainable growth and reflect Auckland’s identity.

You will oversee a portfolio of event partnerships and look for ways to align them with Auckland’s Major Events Strategy. This includes identifying opportunities for growth, planning for the long term, negotiating contract terms, and making sure the expected commercial and regional benefits are achieved. You will also help uncover and implement leverage opportunities that increase the value generated by each event for the region.

What we are looking for

The ideal candidate brings substantial experience in either major event delivery or the management of commercial partnerships. You should be a collaborative, approachable professional with a growth mindset and a genuine interest in improving processes and helping others succeed.

Strong organisation, interpersonal ability, and careful attention to detail are important. You will also need solid written and verbal communication skills, sound judgement, and the confidence to solve problems and make decisions. Influence, advocacy, and negotiation are central to the role, as is the ability to build and sustain productive internal and external relationships. Commercial understanding and the capability to negotiate commercial rights and benefits are also essential.

Working style and recruitment process

This is an onsite role in Auckland with a flexible working arrangement of 2 days from home and 3 days in the office. The hiring team is aiming to appoint quickly, so applicants should be ready for a fast-moving process with prompt communication and timely completion of checks and onboarding paperwork.

What is offered

The salary for the right applicant is between $110,000 and $120,000. You will join a respected team of specialists in an organisation that values diversity, trust, and individual contribution. The position offers the chance to help shape major events that contribute to Auckland’s economic, cultural, and social vibrancy.

Additional information

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and to maintaining an inclusive workplace. If you have any support or access needs, you are encouraged to share them during the application process so assistance can be arranged.

The application deadline is 11:59 PM on 5 July 2026.