Executive Assistant | Pouāwhina - Strategy and Planning

About Nelson City Council | E pā ana ki te Kaunihera o Whakatū

Our vision for Whakatū Nelson is to be a creative, thriving, and innovative city. We aim to nurture a community that is inclusive, resilient, and connected, where people care for each other and the natural environment.

Role Overview | Kō tēnei tūranga mahi

We seek a highly organized, proactive, and experienced Executive Assistant to support our Executive Director Strategy and Planning. This role is crucial in facilitating strategic and operational achievements across a dynamic, high-impact Directorate. You will enable the Executive Director to focus on strategic initiatives by managing complex schedules, overseeing information flow, coordinating key meetings, preparing polished documents, and serving as a reliable contact point for both staff and stakeholders. Collaborating across the wider EA team, you will contribute to efficient operations and a well-connected organizational culture.

Primary Responsibilities

• Efficiently manage the Executive Director’s calendar, email inbox, and correspondence.
• Organize meetings, prepare agendas, collate papers, record minutes, and ensure timely follow-up on action items.
• Draft, edit, and review correspondence, reports, and presentations to a high standard.
• Prioritize and screen communications to guarantee prompt responses.
• Provide project assistance and cross-Directorate support in partnership with other Executive Assistants.

Candidate Profile | Ko ngā pūmanawa ō

• Proven extensive experience delivering top-tier executive support.
• Meticulous attention to detail coupled with a dedication to structured, efficient processes resulting in quality outputs.
• Ability to operate accurately and swiftly under pressure.
• Exceptional organizational skills to effectively manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Sound judgment, discretion, and a strong commitment to confidentiality.
• Excellent communication, proofreading, and document production capabilities.
• Capacity to establish trusted relationships with key stakeholders including fellow Executive Assistants and Business Unit Managers, fostering collaborative teamwork.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Possession of a relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent professional experience.

What We Offer | Ko ngā painga mōu

• Access to wellbeing leave, platforms, and initiatives that support health.
• A fully subsidised health insurance plan.
• Opportunities for learning and professional growth.
• Various employee benefits and discounts.
• Convenient access to beautiful local mountains, beaches, and national parks.

Application Deadline | Rā whakakapi

Applications close on Friday, 31 July 2026. Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications promptly as the vacancy may close earlier if a suitable applicant is found.

Contact for Queries | Ina he pātai anō, whakapā mai

If you have any questions, please contact Juliette Sutton, People & Capability Advisor, via email at the council.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Nelson City Council is dedicated to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment where all individuals feel safe, valued, and have a genuine sense of belonging. Applications are welcomed from people of all backgrounds including diverse ethnicities, cultures, LGBTQ+ communities, neurodivergent individuals, and persons with disabilities. Assistance with the application process is available upon request.