Napier City Council
Provides and manages Napier’s local infrastructure, facilities and services across civic and community functions.
3 days ago
$168,100 - $197,800
Expert & Leadership (13+ years)
Full Time
Poraiti, Hawke's Bay Region, New Zealand
Hybrid
Company Size
351 Employees
Service Specialisms
Sector Specialisms
Description
people strategy
workforce planning
employment relations
health & safety
leadership coaching
organisational development
As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, the Chief People Officer will lead high‑performing People, Health & Safety, and Organisational Development functions and work in close partnership with the Chief Executive and Executive Directors to guide the organisation through complex change. You’ll bring clarity, confidence, and credibility to people leadership — supporting leaders to navigate employment complexity, lift engagement, and lead through transformation with transparency and care. This is a role for a strategic, hands‑on leader who understands the realities of public sector change and can turn people strategy into tangible cultural and performance outcomes.
- Lead the organisation’s People & Capability functions, setting clear direction and expectations that enable a high-performance, values-led culture.
- Partner with the Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team to lead the people dimensions of local government change, supporting leaders to navigate complexity with confidence and care.
- Drive the development and delivery of people strategies that lift capability, engagement, and performance across the organisation.
- Lead employment relations, remuneration and workforce planning frameworks that are robust, fair, and fit for a highly regulated public sector environment.
- Champion health, safety and wellbeing as a core part of how Council operates, embedding safe and sustainable practices as business as usual.
- Develop, coach, and lead a high-performing People & Capability team that delivers trusted advice, practical solutions, and continuous improvement.
Requirements
senior leader
change management
employment law
executive partner
communication
māori language
Before joining, candidates must complete pre‑employment checks, including criminal background checks, and where required, health screening and drug testing. NCC employees may also be called upon to support Civil Defence emergencies when the community needs assistance.
- Highly credible senior people leader with significant experience operating at executive or senior management level in complex, regulated organisations.
- Proven ability to build and sustain high‑performing teams, setting clear direction while empowering others to lead and deliver.
- Demonstrated success leading organisational change, culture programmes, and workforce transformation in the public or similar sectors.
- Strong, practical understanding of New Zealand employment legislation and people best practice, applied with sound judgement.
- Confident influencer and trusted advisor, able to partner effectively with executives, people leaders, unions, and governance stakeholders.
- Clear, thoughtful communicator who can translate complex people issues into practical, people‑centred solutions.
- Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga and NCC Kapa Haka.
- Te Reo Māori language classes.
Benefits
This is a permanent, full‑time opportunity working 40 hours per week, Monday‑Friday, based in Napier’s CBD. The annual salary package ranges from $168,100 to $197,800 (including KiwiSaver), with the final offer depending on skills and experience, and relocation packages are available for suitable candidates from outside Hawke’s Bay.
- 5 weeks annual leave after 2 years service.
- Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme plus eye test subsidy.
- Retailer discounts and study assistance.
- Employee Assistance Program (OCP).
- Quarterly values awards, birthday vouchers, and social club.
- Free annual flu vaccinations.
Training + Development
Interview process
Visa Sponsorship
Security clearance
- pre‑employment checks including a criminal background check; some roles may also require health screening and drug testing.
Overview
Founded in 1950
Local Governing Body Established
The governing body was established in 1950 to oversee civic services and infrastructure across the region.
1931 Earthquake
Rebuilt in Art Deco Style
The city was historically reborn in Art Deco style after the devastating 1931 earthquake, defining its distinct heritage.
1930s Art Deco
Historic Cityscape
Napier boasts an almost intact Art Deco cityscape from the 1930s, rare globally and central to its identity.
- Oversees civic services and infrastructure across suburbs like Taradale, Ahuriri, and Onekawa.
- Guides urban planning, building consents, and three‑waters systems while maintaining roads, parks, libraries, and recreational facilities.
- Supports tourism and community projects, including Aquatic Centre upgrades, Art Deco festivals, and aquarium development.
- Provides specialist services such as three‑waters management, environmental health, emergency preparedness, building, and planning control.
- Steers major infrastructure programs like road maintenance, water services, and public amenity enhancements across Napier.
- Blends municipal management with event support and cultural attractions, shaping Napier as a warm, vibrant regional capital.
Culture + Values
- We are committed to delivering great service to our community, ensuring the best possible experience for everyone.
- We focus on innovation and continuous improvement, constantly finding better ways of doing things.
- We work collaboratively, valuing the input and expertise of our team members and the community.
- We respect and care for people and the environment in all that we do.
- We are accountable, acting with integrity and transparency in everything we do.
Environment + Sustainability
2050 net zero
Carbon Neutrality Goal
The council aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 through various sustainability initiatives.
- The council has implemented energy-efficient buildings and waste minimization programs to reduce its carbon footprint.
- Sustainable transport, energy solutions, and waste management are key strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Efforts are ongoing to improve water quality and biodiversity, including projects to protect local waterways and natural habitats.
- The city is planting more trees to increase green spaces and combat climate change.
Inclusion & Diversity
- strives to create an inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected.
- has clear goals for increasing gender equality and diversity in leadership positions.
- has implemented initiatives to ensure equitable hiring practices and career development opportunities for all staff.