Kia mahi ngātahi mō Pōneke mō tōna āpōpō - Working together for Wellington's futureLead policy that shapes the future of Wellington. Influence decisions that matter.We're looking for a skilled and experienced Senior Policy Advisor to join our high-performing Policy team within the Strategy and Finance Group. This is a pivotal 12-month fixed-term role where you'll lead complex policy projects, provide strategic advice to senior leaders and Councillors, and help drive the Council's long-term direction.Āu ake mahi - What you'll doAs a Senior Policy Advisor, you'll be responsible for delivering high-quality analysis, advice and implementation support across a broad and impactful work programme. You'll lead the development and review of policy and regulatory settings, guide engagement with stakeholders and iwi partners, and produce clear, compelling policy documents and briefings. Your work will support the Council's long-term planning, performance monitoring, and response to key challenges and opportunities facing the city.You'll play a critical role in providing credible advice to senior management and Councillors, helping to drive, develop and deliver pivotal policy decisions. You'll act as a key link between the Council's strategy and its implementation ensuring policy is not only well-designed but also politically viable and actionable.You'll be part of a close-knit, collaborative team that work well together, support each other and value diverse perspectives.Ngā tohu me ngā wheako - Qualifications and experienceTo succeed in this role, you'll bring five to eight years of senior-level experience in policy advisory work, with strong policy development expertise and the ability to work across diverse programmes of work. You'll be confident sitting at the table with Councillors, influencing decision-making, and navigating complex governance environments with political nous. You'll combine strategic thinking with the ability to get things done - developing robust policy and seeing it through to implementation.You'll also bring cultural awareness and a commitment to engaging meaningfully with iwi and communities. Adaptability, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement are essential, as is a genuine interest in local government and public service.Nōu te rourou - What's in it for youWe're Working for Wellington - playing our part in making Pōneke the creative capital where people and nature thrive.Working for the Council offers you including five weeks annual leave, flexible working options, health and wellbeing support, Council staff discounts and a range of learning and development programmes and opportunities.View our to see what our employees say about working at WCC.Diversity:We want your application to enable you to portray the real you. Skills are gained across many areas of our life, not just formal employment. If you can demonstrate the skills listed in the advert through whānau life, community or mahi aroha (volunteering) we encourage you to apply and share your story with us in your cover letter.We welcome applications from all people and like our workforce to reflect the diverse communities we serve.Accessibility Support:We want to make sure any accessibility requirements you may have, are well supported so the selection process is equitable for everyone. Please let us know if there are any adjustments or support, we can offer to make our process more accessible to you by emailing:Applications close on Friday, 12 September 2025.Please note that we may engage with applicants prior to the vacancy closing and/or close applications ahead of this date so we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.All applications must be submitted online - we will not accept emailed applications.All applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand.If you have questions, please contact Geoff Lawson, Team Leader Policy,