Chief Executive / Kaihautū
- New Plymouth, Taranaki
- Contract
- Full-time
Where there is a body of water, people settle, and where people settle, stories unfold.Key Benefits· Lead a forward-looking Council with strong foundations· Shape responses to evolving local government challenges· Build enduring partnerships with Iwi, community and stakeholders· Drive innovation, service excellence and strategic deliveryAbout Whanganui District CouncilWhanganui is a place of deep cultural resonance, creative vibrancy, and ambitious growth. The Whanganui River, recognised as a legal person under Te Awa Tupua, anchors the district's values of kaitiakitanga and collective stewardship. With a population of around 50,000 and a proud heritage blended with contemporary innovation, Whanganui is big enough to enable ambition yet small enough for authentic connection.Council operates with total annual revenue of approximately $100 million and employs around 300 staff, delivering a wide range of services spanning infrastructure, community facilities, regulatory functions and economic development. Through its , WDC is committed to positive, connected, innovative and sustainable growth - delivering on the aspirations of its people and place.About the RoleWhanganui District Council seeks a Chief Executive to provide bold, values-led leadership at a pivotal moment for both the organisation and the wider local government sector. Reporting to the Mayor and elected members, this role requires a confident navigator of change: someone courageous and outcome-focused, with the commercial and political acumen to deliver results in a complex and shifting environment.While Council has strong external relationships and iwi partnerships, the next Chief Executive will also need to bring energy and focus to building organisational culture, capability, and internal cohesion. Leading with vision while empowering and delegating effectively to a capable leadership team will be essential to strengthening both service delivery and the Council's reputation.The role calls for someone who can foster trust and collaboration with mana whenua, community, business, and government partners, while also ensuring robust financial stewardship, well-planned infrastructure, and confident navigation of policy areas (such as WDC's and Ruapehu District Council's Water Services Plan).Skills & ExperienceWe are seeking a proven leader with:· Deep commitment to partnering with mana whenua and community stakeholders· Bold, courageous leadership with a track record of delivering change and outcomes· Strong commercial acumen, combined with sound financial and operational management· Political acuity and the ability to support elected members to govern effectively· Inclusive, empowering leadership to foster culture, reputation and organisational capabilityThis is a rare opportunity for a senior leader ready to make a lasting contribution in a district known for its creativity, culture and quality of life.To apply in strict confidence now, click 'Apply for this job' or email your cover letter and CV to quoting 8935LG. Applications close on 25th September 2025, 9am. Emails will be electronically acknowledged and further correspondence may be by email.To view the Candidate Briefing document, please click .For more information please phone Katy Anquetil on +64 27 512 8193.