New Plymouth WSCCO Chief Executive

Help shape the future of our waters!

Āwhinatia te waihanga i te anamata o ō tātou wai!

Who are we? - Ko wai mātou?

New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) is progressing the formation of a new, standalone entity - a yet to be named New Plymouth Water Services Council Controlled Organisation (NP WSCCO) - to oversee the delivery of water services in alignment with national reform and local priorities. This entity will play a critical role in shaping the future of public water service delivery in the region, with a strong focus on community accountability, strategic collaboration, and operational excellence.

The opportunity - Te āheinga

We are seeking an exceptional leader to lead the formation and development of the New Plymouth Water Services Council Controlled Organisation (NP WSCCO). As the Establishment Chief Executive, you'll play a pivotal role in designing and building a new public water services entity from the ground up.

This is initially a fixed-term role for a period of 8 - 10 months, during which the successful applicant will steer the legal establishment process, shape the organisation's strategic vision, and drive operational readiness in alignment with emerging legislation. From the outset, candidates must understand that the scope is fluid. Once a board is established, the recruitment of a permanent Chief Executive will be undertaken, which you may or may not decide to put your hand up for.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive of NPDC, this is a rare opportunity to bring ambitious thinking to a critical sector and set the foundation for long-term impact.

Key responsibilities - Ngā haepapa matua

Strategy and planning:

• Develop and communicate a clear establishment strategy aligned with NP WSCCO's vision
• Lead the creation of foundational documents for the establishment of a WSCCO required under Local Water Done Well legislation
• Actively engage with the Board of Directors to ensure a clear collective understanding of strategic direction, providing relevant support, communication and expert advice as needed
• Maintain awareness of industry trends to future-proof the entity's strategic positioning

Financial acumen:

• Establish financial frameworks that support long-term sustainability
• Develop financial models and debt structures appropriate for a newly formed entity
• Lay the groundwork for future financial independence and investor confidence

Stakeholder engagement and partnerships:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Te Tiriti Partners, NPDC, Central Government, and regional collaborators
• Represent NP WSCCO publicly and foster trust and credibility
• Ensure transparent and proactive communication with all stakeholders

Change leadership and organisational development:

• Lead the development of transfer agreements and service level arrangements to support initial operations
• Guide the entity through change, ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations
• Champion a culture of adaptability, innovation, and resilience

People leadership:

• Recruit and develop a high-performing establishment team
• Foster a values-driven culture that supports engagement and wellbeing
• Lead through transition, ensuring staff are supported and aligned with the entity's purpose
• Promote diversity, inclusion, and professional growth

Essential skills and experience - Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako:

• Demonstrated experience in leading the establishment or transformation of large, complex organisations, ideally within infrastructure, utilities, governance, or public sector contexts
• Proven ability to shape and implement strategic initiatives in environments undergoing significant change
• Track record of building and sustaining high-performing teams and fostering constructive organisational cultures
• Strong experience in engaging with a broad range of stakeholders, including Te Tiriti partners, Central Government, and business or industry partners
• Clear commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing as foundational organisational priorities

Knowledge, skills and attributes:

• High levels of integrity, energy, and strategic insight
• Capable of inspiring and aligning teams around a shared purpose and future vision
• Ability to operate effectively under public and media scrutiny, maintaining composure and credibility
• Demonstrates curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from diverse perspectives
• Skilled communicator and relationship builder, able to connect across sectors and communities

Why Taranaki? - He aha ngā hua o te rohe nei?

Taranaki is a region like no other, offering a perfect balance of career opportunities and lifestyle. Nestled between the stunning Mounga Taranaki and the sparkling Tasman Sea, it's a place where you can explore world-class hiking trails, surf pristine beaches, and enjoy vibrant arts and culture, all within minutes of each other. The region boasts affordable living, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquillity, or a bit of both, Taranaki provides an unparalleled quality of life that will make every day feel extraordinary.

What we offer - Ngā ratonga

A competitive salary package will be offered, commensurate with the experience and capabilities of the successful candidate. The salary band will be discussed with shortlisted applicants during the selection process.

Applications close on Wednesday, 3 September 2025.

Please note: Recruitment for this role is contingent upon the approval of the Water Services Delivery Plan (WSDP) by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). While we are progressing with the recruitment process to ensure readiness, the scope and direction of the role may need to adapt or pivot depending on decisions made by central government.