Permissions Team Lead | Kaiārahi Rōpu Whakaaetanga

About the role

The Department of Conservation is hiring a permanent Team Lead for its Permissions team in Hamilton, with other locations potentially available for the right person. This position sits at the centre of complex, high-impact decision-making involving legislation, policy, and operational processes that directly affect conservation outcomes.

You will lead a team of 7 to 8 people in a demanding, fast-moving environment where priorities shift and workloads can be challenging. The role calls for a calm and confident leader who can handle pressure, keep the team aligned, and build strong collaboration across the group.

This is a highly connected position that works across DOC and the broader government landscape to make sure permissions work is aligned with statutory obligations and strategic direction. You will help turn technical detail into clear action, support the ongoing development of the permissions function, and contribute to shaping its future.

The team is currently navigating a particularly busy period as new technology is introduced and organisational goals are progressed, so the successful person will need to be adaptable, resilient, and ready to make an immediate contribution.

Responsibilities

• Guide and support the Permissions team so it can deliver priority work effectively.
• Lead change initiatives that influence the future direction of the permissions function.
• Manage a team of 7 to 8 staff in a high-scrutiny, fast-paced environment.
• Set expectations, coach staff, and provide the support needed to sustain strong performance.
• Help the team stay focused on deliverables, even when workloads are heavy and timelines are tight.
• Handle issues confidently under pressure while preserving team cohesion and collaboration.
• Work across DOC and the wider public sector to align work with legislative, policy, and strategic requirements.
• Translate technical detail and broader strategy for a variety of stakeholders.
• Support a culture of integrity, perspective, and strong people leadership.

Requirements

• Sound knowledge of permissions work and the legislation that governs it.
• Comfort working across multiple systems and operational processes.
• Demonstrated people leadership experience.
• Experience mentoring, coaching, and building systems that help staff manage demanding workloads and deadlines.
• Proven ability to lead through change and maintain high team performance.
• Political awareness and strategic thinking.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to explain technical matters to different audiences.
• Background in regulatory work and providing high-quality advice in complex technical settings.
• Excellent interpersonal, engagement, and relationship management skills.
• Ability to stay composed, act with integrity, and keep perspective in difficult situations.
• Confidence working in partnership with iwi and tangata whenua and a commitment to Treaty partnership.
• Flexibility and resilience to contribute quickly in a busy environment.

Perks

• Permanent, full-time employment.
• Base location in Hamilton, with other locations considered for the right candidate.
• Flexible working arrangements may be considered depending on the role and discussion with your leader.
• Supportive culture focused on participation, growth, equity, and inclusion.
• Salary range of NZ$93,656 to NZ$118,510, depending on skills and experience.
• Recruitment adjustments can be arranged where needed.

Additional information

Our vision is Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa.

Applicants must hold a valid New Zealand work visa that covers the full duration of employment.

Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday, 8 July 2026.

Applications must be submitted online with a CV and cover letter explaining relevant experience and motivation. Email applications will not be accepted, and feedback is not provided to candidates who are not shortlisted.

For further enquiries, contact Rebecca Beaumont at rbeaumont@doc.govt.nz.