Head of Health and Safety

Role overview

Powerco is seeking a permanent full-time Head of Health and Safety based in New Plymouth, Tauranga, or Wellington. This senior leadership position is focused on advancing the organisation’s health, safety and wellbeing approach beyond compliance, with a strong emphasis on critical risk leadership, organisational resilience, and a strong safety culture.

In this role, you will lead an established team and work closely with executive leaders, the Board, operational teams, contractors, and service providers. The position calls for someone who can influence strategic decisions, provide clear assurance on safety matters, and help the business make practical, risk-based choices that keep employees, contractors, and communities safe.

The organisation offers a competitive remuneration package along with medical insurance, life insurance, and other employee benefits as part of a values-led, purpose-driven workplace.

Key responsibilities

• Continue strengthening Powerco’s health, safety and wellbeing performance, with particular focus on critical risk management and learning from incidents.
• Provide strategic guidance and assurance to the Executive Leadership Team and the Board of Directors.
• Work in partnership with operational leaders so that safety is embedded in daily decisions and overall operational excellence.
• Develop strong working relationships with service providers to build shared ownership of critical risks and improve performance across the network.
• Help ensure the safe design, construction, operation, and maintenance of the electricity network that supports the communities served by Powerco.
• Oversee investigations, organisational learning, and continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen systems and culture.
• Represent Powerco externally at industry level and encourage collaboration with service providers and peers.
• Promote wellbeing as a core part of building resilient, high-performing teams.

Skills and experience

• Strong interpersonal capability, supported by substantial experience in health and safety or operational leadership in a high-risk environment.
• Demonstrated success in improving critical risk management and health and safety systems over time.
• People leadership experience, with the ability to influence safety culture across teams and within the wider industry.
• Confidence working with executives, boards, regulators, and external stakeholders.

What’s on offer

• Flexible working arrangements can be discussed and agreed with your leader under the organisation’s Thriving At Work Standard.
• 4% KiwiSaver contribution.
• The option to purchase extra leave.
• Paid volunteer days.
• Free fruit in the office.
• Strong parental leave support.
• Free life insurance and medical insurance.
• A supportive, friendly, and high-performing team environment.

Additional information

This is a values-based role within a purpose-led organisation. Powerco encourages applicants from underrepresented and neurodiverse backgrounds to apply even if they do not meet every listed requirement, provided the role aligns with their strengths and interests.

If you need adjustments or support to take part in the recruitment process, assistance is available by phone or email.

Applications close on Monday 13 July 2026.