Kaitohu Kāwana | Governance Advisor

Governance Advisor

• Do you thrive in high-paced environments where precision, policy and people come together?
• Are you passionate about good governance and making things run like clockwork?

If so, we’ve got the role for you!

We’re on the lookout for a Governance Advisor or Senior Governance Advisor to join our dynamic team. This role is at the heart of Council decision-making, supporting transparent, effective governance that makes a real impact in our community. No experience? No problem! If you're passionate about starting a long-term career and see this as an exciting new opportunity we can provide all the necessary training.

The role is usually 40 hours per week but for the right person we would be open to discussing other flexible working arrangements — such as less hours to better suit family or personal commitments.

What You'll Be Doing (aka, Your Superpowers):

This is no ordinary desk job – you’ll be the go-to expert for ensuring our Council meetings, processes and legislative obligations are watertight. You will:

• Be a trusted advisor on Standing Orders and meeting procedures, ensuring everything ticks along smoothly and lawfully.
• Comfortably navigate (or be willing to learn) corporate systems such as Infocouncil, databases and registers to help keep our information accurate, up-to-date and easy to access.
• Coordinate and organise hearings for important kaupapa such as the Long Term Plan and Annual Plan, with an eye for detail.
• Draft, format and distribute agendas and minutes like a pro.
• Be a liaison legend working alongside elected members, the public, and Council staff – keeping everyone informed and engaged.
• Attend Council, Committee and Hearing meetings and be the minute-taking ninja who captures key decisions and discussions with clarity.

What We’re Looking For:

Whether you’re stepping up or bringing years of governance expertise, we’d love to hear from you. You will have or be willing to gain:

• A sound understanding of governance, legislation and meeting processes.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Experience using corporate software and managing complex information systems.
• A knack for balancing details and deadlines.
• The confidence to advise and coordinate Mayor, Councillors and senior staff.
• Great initiative and problem solving abilities.

Why choose us?

At Matamata-Piako District Council we believe the way we do things really does make a difference in the lives of those who live in our district. We want to be your employer of choice – by helping you to balance life and work, by offering learning opportunities and offering benefits in a way that will assist you to thrive. We have a dynamic work environment with plenty of laughter and a friendly, welcoming and positive culture.

Some of the staff benefits we offer are:

• Flexible work arrangements and a family friendly work environment

-  Sick leave on commencement of employment

-  The ability to earn performance payments

-  Extra annual leave awarded with years of service

-  Long service leave

-  Partners paid parental leave

-  Subsidies at council pool facilities

-  Free parking

-  Ongoing learning and development opportunities

• Access to wellbeing resources and workplace support

Ready to make your mark while making a difference? Apply now and bring your A-game.

View the position description and apply for this position at www.joinourteam.co.nz and enter the job code 36561LGBL.

Applications close midday, Tuesday 29 July 2025.