We are looking for an energetic policy expert with this mix of skills to join our small and dedicated Strategy and Policy team within the Strategy Group. While we are seeking a Senior Policy Advisor, we will also consider experienced Policy Advisors for this role. You will need to be able to lead complex policy projects and have a track record of providing robust policy advice. This should include strong qualitative and quantitative research skills and experience with larger scale strategy work. Although there will be no direct team management, leadership and mentoring experience or potential is also important.

You will be expected to contribute to Council's collaborative team culture, have demonstrated an ability to make a positive contribution in the policy space and enjoy the dynamic relationships in our organisation and across the Whanganui Community.

Our team is responsible for developing and reviewing the district's strategies, policies and bylaws. You will also be innovative, positive, motivated and have a commitment to our City's aspirations.

To be successful in this role, you'll be someone who has:

• Experience leading a range of complex policy and/or strategic projects and working across teams to influence a range of activities;
• Strong stakeholder relationship building, influencing and engagement skills to gain the cooperation and commitment of others;
• Exceptional communication skills to distil complex information into clear, compelling strategies, translating diverse input from leadership and stakeholders into actionable plans and comprehensive documentation
• Proven project management skills to deliver work within specified timeframes;
• Strong skills in qualitative and quantitative research and engagement;
• In addition, excellent attention to detail and a positive team attitude is a must.

About Whanganui District

A welcoming and warm city, Whanganui has been growing in population and businesses in recent years with the buzz of new families and represents an incredible lifestyle location - close to New Zealand's best outdoor experiences in bush, cycle trails, river and skiing.

Whanganui combines rich heritage with modern innovation, centred around our stunning awa. This growing city offers an exceptional lifestyle with excellent schools, easy access to major centres, and a flourishing arts and cultural scene. Whanganui is Aotearoa/New Zealand's UNESCO city of design and has the range of arts and culture one would expect of a modern New Zealand city.

You'll be instrumental in shaping this exciting chapter of our story while enjoying the rewards of life in our distinctive district. You will have a direct impact on the wellbeing of our communities, and diverse opportunities to further develop your leadership and technical skills

If you are eager to be part of our team, and you have what it takes to succeed in this role, we look forward to receiving your application.

To find out more please contact Sarah O'Hagan, Chief Strategy Officer sarah.o'hagan@whanganui.govt.nz

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews may occur before the advertised closing date. As a result, this position may be filled and closed earlier than expected. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.

Please note: only applications submitted via our Whanganui District Council's careers page will be accepted.