Our Client | To Kaitono ā Mātou

Live, work and lead in Aotearoa New Zealand’s most spectacular setting. Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is not your typical council. As one of the country’s fastest-growing districts, QLDC operates in a complex, high-profile environment where expectations are high, the pace is fast, and the impact is real.  This is a rare opportunity to step into a pivotal leadership role within a high-performing organisation that is ambitious for its future. You will work alongside a progressive Mayor and engaged elected members to shape the direction of the district and deliver outcomes that matter for communities now and into the future.  QLDC is driven by purpose – care, connection and community – and is focused on lifting performance, strengthening capability, and delivering at scale. This role offers the opportunity to lead meaningful change, influence nationally significant conversations, and leave a lasting legacy in one of New Zealand’s most visible and vibrant regions.

To find out more about the Council, please visit www.qldc.govt.nz

 Key Responsibilities | Ngā Whakararuraru Matua

Reporting to the Mayor and elected members of the Council, you will play a pivotal role in leading the organisation to deliver on the community’s long-term aspirations. You will provide clear, values-led leadership, ensuring strong alignment between Council priorities, organisational performance, and community outcomes.  Overseeing and empowering the executive team, you will foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement, whilst building trusted relationships with elected members to support effective governance and decision-making. Your responsibilities will include strengthening organisational capability, ensuring the effective delivery of infrastructure, services, and investment programmes, and maintaining a strong focus on execution and performance.  As the public face of the organisation, you will act as a credible advocate for the district, building strong partnerships with central government, iwi, stakeholders, and the wider community, whilst promoting transparent communication and maintaining sound financial stewardship.

Your Skills and Experience | Ō Pukenga me Ō Wheako

To succeed in this role, you will be an experienced and credible senior leader with a proven ability to lead organisations through growth, change, and increasing delivery expectations. While an understanding of local government is desirable; of greater importance is your experience leading complex organisations by setting clear direction and delivering outcomes in dynamic and demanding environments.  You will bring a strategic yet pragmatic mindset, with a track record of building high-performing teams and strengthening organisational culture. An authentic and values-driven leader, you will build trust and credibility with elected members, stakeholders, and the wider community, whilst maintaining a strong focus on performance and accountability.  Your exceptional communication and relationship skills, coupled with sound judgement and presence, will also enable you to operate confidently in the public arena.

What we offer | Ko ā Mātou Whakaratoka

This role is an opportunity to lead in a place where lifestyle and impact go hand in hand.

Queenstown Lakes District offers a unique lifestyle underpinned by a strong sense of community, exceptional natural surroundings, and a vibrant, year-round outdoor culture. The district attracts people from around the world, creating a diverse, connected, and high-energy environment that values wellbeing, sustainability, and an active way of life.

You will also be joining a high-performing organisation committed to continuous improvement, strong leadership, and delivering meaningful outcomes for its communities.

To Apply | Ki te Tono

If you are motivated by the opportunity to lead at scale, work alongside a high-performing organisation, and make a lasting impact in one of New Zealand’s most dynamic districts, we welcome your application.

Applications close Friday 24 April 2026

For an initial confidential discussion, contact Nick Carter on 0275 913 422 or Kim Arnold on 021 352 909.