Starting salary: $135,000 - $145,000 (negotiable) + relocation package + 5 weeks annual leave + insurance benefits and more...
When disaster strikes, Southland relies on strong leadership, calm decision-making, and community readiness. This is your opportunity to step into a role that truly makes a difference - leading the region's emergency management capability across four councils to protect and prepare our communities for whatever nature brings.
At Environment Southland, you'll lead Emergency Management Southland (EMS) a shared service between Environment Southland, Invercargill City Council, Southland District Council, and Gore District Council. Together, these councils form a united front across the 4Rs - reduction, readiness, response, and recovery - building a resilient region that understands and manages its hazards.
This is not a desk-bound role. You'll be at the forefront of readiness and response, providing strategic leadership and operational direction through complex and high-pressure incidents. Your calm, collected presence will be the steady hand that guides response teams, the media, and the public when uncertainty hits.
About You
You're a proven leader in emergency or incident management, experienced in managing people and operations in fast-paced, high-stakes environments. You're pragmatic, composed, and able to think clearly when the pressure is on. Public speaking and engagement come naturally - you can communicate confidence and clarity whether addressing a community group or briefing a media outlet.
You'll bring:
- Significant experience managing emergency response teams or operations, ideally within local government, emergency services, or similar sectors
- Deep understanding of the Coordinated Incident Management System (CIMS)
- Strong relationship-building skills - from council executives to first responders and the community
- Strategic foresight balanced with practical, on-the-ground decision-making
- The ability to inspire trust, empower others, and lead through uncertainty
Why Join Us?
This is a shared leadership role across Southland's four councils a complex, challenging, and rewarding opportunity that offers real scope to shape how a region prepares for and responds to emergencies. You'll have access to generous leave, relocation support, and a leadership culture that values innovation, wellbeing, and professional growth.
At Environment Southland, we're guided by our vision of "a thriving Southland (Te taurikura o Murihiku)" supporting safer, stronger communities that understand and manage their hazards.
If you're ready to steer the ship when it matters most - ensuring our teams, partners, and communities are prepared, informed, and resilient we want to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion connect with Victoria Williams on 03 244 9582.
Apply now to lead Southland's emergency management future.
To apply for this job go to: https://environmentsouthland.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Vacancies
Applications close 23 November 2025
