Operations Advisor | Kaitohu Whakahaere

About the Role

Join the Department of Conservation as an Operations Advisor, a role focused on leading operational planning, managing performance reporting, enhancing business processes, and overseeing governance activities to support informed decision-making and the achievement of DOC's goals. Positioned under the Operations Manager, you will work closely with operational leaders to coordinate planning, monitor budgets, identify risk factors and opportunities, and ensure district priorities are successfully delivered.

Your role will encompass governance reporting, health and safety initiatives, regional planning tasks, and business improvement projects. Utilizing data to generate actionable insights, you’ll foster collaborative relationships that drive operational excellence and contribute meaningfully to conservation outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the district's operational environment including assurance, issue management, governance, business improvements, and health and safety activities to maintain safe, efficient operations.
• Coordinate comprehensive planning, reporting, and budget management efforts; develop business plans quarterly and annually; oversee performance and financial monitoring to inform decisions that align with district priorities.
• Provide leadership and operational support by managing governance reporting, supporting regional initiatives and community engagements (huis), and ensuring effective business support services delivery.
• Establish and maintain strong collaborative relationships across DOC teams to influence outcomes, identify process improvements, and enhance conservation efforts.
• Supervise and mentor one direct report, promoting their professional growth and ensuring quality business support throughout the district.

Work Location & Commitment

This role is based in Auckland and Warkworth offices with a hybrid working model. Regular attendance at both locations weekly or every fortnight is required to nurture relationships and support stakeholders.

Required Skills & Experience

• Experience managing planning, reporting, budgeting, and operational delivery within a complex organisational setting.
• Strong analytical aptitude with the capability to translate data into insightful analysis and continuous improvement measures.
• Exceptional written communication skills, including preparing reports, briefings, and governance documents tailored for diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to develop relationships, influence decisions, and collaborate effectively with stakeholders at multiple levels.
• Comfortable with technology, especially advanced Microsoft Excel and various reporting platforms.
• Solution-oriented, well-organized, responsible, and ethical with a focus on delivering excellent results.
• Understanding the Māori-Crown relationship relevant to DOC, a passion for conservation, and interest in leadership development through supporting and mentoring colleagues.

Benefits and Culture

DOC champions a workplace where all employees can participate fully, thrive, and evolve. The organisation embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values. Flexible work arrangements are provided based on role requirements and managerial discussions.

Additional Information

• Permanent appointment with a salary range of NZD 80,695 to NZD 101,951, depending on skills and experience.
• Applicants must hold a valid New Zealand work visa for the entire period of employment.
• Recruitment agencies are not involved in this process.
• Applications close at 11:59 PM on Sunday, 16 August; early closure possible.
• Applicants requiring accommodations during recruitment should notify the contact person.