Head of Aquatics

Role Overview

Take charge of shaping the strategic direction and operational leadership of Hutt City Council's aquatic services. This senior position focuses on ensuring the aquatic facilities and services across Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai Lower Hutt are safe, sustainable, compliant, financially stable, and community-focused.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the long-term strategy for the Council’s aquatic portfolio, breaking down plans into actionable programs.
• Ensure all aquatic facilities, services, and programmes comply with safety regulations, industry standards, and operational guidelines.
• Identify and apply sustainable business models that enhance revenue opportunities while maintaining affordability for users and ratepayers.
• Provide leadership and support to the Aquatics leadership team to achieve consistent high performance.
• Collaborate with Asset and Facilities Management teams to oversee asset planning, maintenance, and investment decisions.
• Track participation rates, customer satisfaction, programme effectiveness, and financial outcomes to guide strategic decision-making.
• Establish and nurture relationships with elected officials, community organisations, industry partners, and other stakeholders.
• Promote continuous improvement, manage change effectively, and foster a positive culture centered on health, safety, and wellbeing.

Candidate Profile

• Possess a relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience in business, recreation, or facility management.
• Hold a minimum of two years’ experience managing aquatic facilities, preferably with knowledge of multiple site oversight.
• Demonstrate business acumen and strategic development skills.
• Proven leadership abilities, with a track record of motivating and developing large, diverse teams.
• Strong financial competencies, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
• Excellent communication skills with ability to prepare professional-level Council documentation.
• Capacity to build trusted relationships and thrive within a political and community-focused environment.
• Resilient, proactive, and able to effectively juggle multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines.

A Swimming Pool Water Treatment Certificate and experience in senior recreation management roles handling multiple aquatic sites are beneficial but not mandatory.

About Hutt City Council

Our vision is to foster a connected, resilient, and inclusive city where all residents flourish. We empower neighborhoods as architects of their future. This role offers a chance to lead impactful community services that enhance wellbeing and ensure sustainability for years to come. We value diversity and inclusion and welcome candidates from all backgrounds, even if all criteria are not fully met.

Additional Information

Applications close at 11:55pm on Thursday 6 August 2026. Early applications are encouraged as reviews may occur prior to the deadline. We reserve the right to withdraw this advertisement at any time.