Senior Policy Advisor

Do you enjoy solving complex problems, influencing strategic decisions, and creating policies that have a lasting impact on communities?

We're looking for a Senior Policy Advisor who is curious, analytical, and passionate about helping shape the future of the Clutha District. This is your opportunity to work on meaningful projects that influence how Council plans for growth, delivers services, and responds to the needs of our communities

In this role you will:

• Contribute to and advise on strategic planning projects, including the Long Term Plan, Annual Plan, community plans, and other corporate planning initiatives.
• Develop, review, and implement Council policies, strategies, and bylaws that support good governance and strong community outcomes.
• Support Council to meet its statutory obligations under the Local Government Act 2002 and advising on Government reforms.
• Undertake high-quality research, analysis, and reporting to inform decision-making.
• Work collaboratively across Council and with external stakeholders to deliver projects and achieve positive outcomes for our communities.

What we’re looking for:

• Experience in strategy, policy, planning, public sector or local government, or related work.
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written communication and report-writing skills.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and deliver quality outcomes both individually and as a member of a team.
• Confidence building relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in public policy, law, economics, planning, business, political science, science or other critical thinking discipline.

• While this is advertised as a senior role we encourage applications from candidates with a range of experience. The salary range advertised reflects the requirements of the senior role, however, appointment and remuneration will be based on the skills, experience and capability of the successful candidate.

Why join us?
At Clutha District Council, the work you do matters. You'll be part of a supportive, collaborative team where your ideas are valued, and your work contributes directly to the future of our district.

If this role sounds like what you’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you!

This will close on Sunday 02 August 2026, but we will be assessing applications as they are received, so apply now!