Principal Planner and Team Leader

Company Overview and Mission

SLR Consulting is a globally recognised environmental consultancy dedicated to contributing to a sustainable future. With approximately 200 staff across New Zealand and over 800 in the Asia Pacific region, the firm offers homegrown and international expertise to address complex sustainability challenges for various business, regulatory, and governmental clients. The company fosters a "One Team Culture" that values diversity of thought to drive exceptional results.

Role Summary

A unique opportunity is available for an experienced Principal Planner and Team Leader at SLR’s Wellington office. This role involves leading a specialized team within the national Planning division, offering mentorship and leadership to senior staff while guiding the team to deliver technically excellent work. Responsibilities include team development, business growth, project leadership, and maintaining high standards of work quality and risk management.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of four direct reports within the Wellington Planning group.
• Provide expert technical leadership and mentorship to Technical Directors and Team Leaders.
• Oversee client-facing project workstreams ensuring successful delivery on schedule and budget.
• Collaborate with various specialist disciplines such as Ecology, Marine Science, Environmental Services, Acoustics, Vibration, Hydrology, Hydrogeology, and Landscape Architecture to achieve utilisation goals.
• Support the growth and enhancement of the Planning Service aligned with SLR’s core purpose and values.
• Mitigate commercial risks by diligently reviewing project work and upholding standards of excellence.
• Continuously develop professional knowledge by staying current with industry trends, best practices, and participating in professional associations.

Qualifications and Experience

• A minimum of 10 years’ experience in the realm of planning and resource management.
• Possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in resource management planning.
• Proven leadership experience managing leaders and building high-performing teams.
• Commercially astute with a strong industry reputation that generates repeat business and new opportunities.
• Skilled at cultivating and sustaining trusted, long-term client relationships.
• Consistently meets targets and actively supports the professional growth of team members.
• Attentive to detail and adept at completing projects within agreed time and budget constraints.
• Experienced in conducting thorough analytical assessments and preparing clear, concise reports.

Benefits and Culture

SLR prides itself on its distinctive culture that emphasizes collaboration and flexible working arrangements to accommodate diverse individual needs. The company offers a comprehensive range of benefits aimed at supporting all employees.

Additional Information

Hiring decisions are based on candidates’ experience, skills, and enthusiasm. Interview panels strive for gender diversity, and applicants are encouraged to share their preferred pronouns and any needed accommodations. Recruitment submissions from external consultants are only accepted through approved supplier channels.