Strategic and District Planning Team Leader

Overview

The Thames-Coromandel District Council is seeking a visionary and proactive Strategic and District Planning Team Leader to lead their land use policy planning efforts. This role combines leadership and technical expertise to manage resource management policy, District Plan development, and strategic spatial planning initiatives. The position follows a hybrid working model with three days onsite to promote teamwork and collaboration, supported by flexible remote days for focused tasks.

Key Responsibilities

In this position, you will lead and mentor a team of planning specialists, oversee the development and execution of council resource management policies and strategic spatial plans district-wide, and ensure delivery of high-quality, timely advice on relevant planning matters.

Qualifications and Experience

Candidates should bring at least seven years of professional experience in planning or resource management policy fields and hold a relevant tertiary qualification. Expertise in leading policy and district plan creation, spatial plan development, community and iwi engagement is crucial.

Skills and Attributes

You must possess strong project management abilities, a solid comprehension of natural resource legislative frameworks, awareness of current regulatory proposals, and capacity to inspire and guide a team. Familiarity with local government statutory and policy structures, together with excellent communication, analytical, critical thinking, engagement, and relationship-building skills, are essential for succeeding in this role.

Benefits and Work Environment

This role offers the chance to work in a dynamic, small, community-focused team within a friendly organization. The council provides attractive compensation, relocation support, flexible work conditions, free parking, sick leave starting immediately, and a desirable location approximately 90 minutes from Auckland, Tauranga, and Hamilton.

Additional Information

Applications are reviewed as submitted; early submission is encouraged. The application deadline is Sunday, 23rd August 2026, at 9:00 pm.