Director Sustainable Futures

Lead change. Shape policy. Protect our environment.

Join Gisborne District Council and make a real impact.

We’re looking for a strategic leader with a passion for community, sustainability, policy development, and environmental planning to drive transformative change in the Tairāwhiti region.

Mō te tūranga | About the position 

As Director Sustainable Futures, you will be a key member of Te Ranga Whakahau (Leadership Team), leading the Sustainable Futures Hub. Your expertise in Resource Management Act (RMA) planning, consenting, and environmental science will guide the development of policies, strategies, and science-based decision-making to ensure a thriving future for our community.

You’ll also uphold Gisborne District Council’s commitment as a Treaty partner, ensuring our work reflects these responsibilities

Ngā Mahi ngā Takohanga Matua rānei | Duties include:

• Provide strategic leadership across GDC, fostering collaboration and a customer-focused approach.
• Develop and implement policies and plans under the Resource Management Act (RMA), Local Government Act, Land Transport Management Act, and other key legislation.
• Oversee scientific research, environmental monitoring, and data analysis to support informed decision-making.
• Manage regulatory and consenting functions, ensuring compliance with legislation and best practices.
• Build strong partnerships with tangata whenua, local communities, stakeholders, and external agencies.
• Lead the Sustainable Futures Hub, ensuring it is efficient, customer centric and forward-thinking.
• Provide expert advice to on climate change, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team in planning, policy, science, and regulation.

Ngā Pūkenga me Ngā Wheako e Hiahia ana | Skills and experience required:

• Significant experience in RMA planning and consenting, as well as environmental science.

• Minimum 10 years of leadership experience in strategic planning, policy development, or environmental management.
• Bachelor's degree in Planning, Environmental Management, Science, or Business Management (or equivalent experience).
• Proven experience working in complex, multidisciplinary environments, ideally within local government or regulatory sectors.
• Strong knowledge of the Resource Management Act (1991), Local Government Act, and related legislation.  .
• Proven experience in collaborating and working effectively with iwi and Māori organisations/communities.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and conflict resolution skills.
• A deep understanding of sustainability, environmental science, and long-term planning.
• Strong financial and personnel management experience.

Ngā Huanga | Benefits

• Flexible on start and finish times
• Hybrid working (home and work)
• Relocation assistance
• Ora Day leave - birthday or any other significant day leave! 
• Piritahi Day - an additional leave day to spend with whānau & friends.
• Waiata group and Kawhe Korero Te Reo class.
• Staff Discounts at local retailers and big brands
• Allocated training budget for career development and to support professional affiliation membership (where relevant to the role)
• Work with a great team and enjoy regular, lively social events!
• Access to reduced health insurance premiums for you and your family through Southern Cross
• Walking distance to the CBD
• Modern office space
• Free eye exams
•  A culture of health and wellbeing with free EAP services and regular staff wellness initiatives  
• Annual flu vaccinations and health checks
• 1 of 6 Unitary Authorities in NZ

He aha ngā painga o te kaunihera | Why work for Gisborne District Council

At Gisborne District Council, our values are shaped by our community, and we embrace a workplace culture rooted in family, inclusivity, and Treaty partnership. Driven by passion and purpose, we’re building a workforce that strengthens our commitment to delivering for our people and making our whānau proud.

Me pēhea te tono mai | How to Apply

This is a unique opportunity to drive meaningful change in a leadership role that makes a tangible difference in our community and environment. If you are ready to lead, innovate, and create a lasting impact, we want to hear from you!

We will start the process when suitable candidates apply, please submit a CV and cover letter.

Click APPLY or email recruitment@gdc.govt.nz for additional information.  

To view the job description for this role, please visit our careers page www.gdc.govt.nz/council/careers  and check the job attachments section in the job advertisement.