Programme Manager (Policy Development)

Hybrid role with flexible working based in Auckland Central
Salary will be $140,650 to $190,290 + KiwiSaver contribution
Help manage the delivery of the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP) taking into account the governments reform programmes

He angitūtanga: The opportunity


Auckland Council is seeking a Programme Manager to manage the delivery of the Combined Plan, including the Auckland Regional Spatial Plan and replacement Auckland Unitary Plan.

This role is based within the Auckland wide unit of the Planning and Resource Consents department. However, it will require you to work across the organisation developing the work programme, planning budgets, tracking, and monitoring progress towards delivery, managing contracts, risk registers and planning and supporting decision making through both internal and elected member steering groups.


You can expect your mahi to include:


Programme management overview support for senior management
Programme leadership and development in consultation with other relevant stakeholders
Identify and consider emerging opportunities, risks, and issues when articulating new options and recommendations
Enabling meaningful engagement with affected communities, iwi, and key stakeholders to ensure active engagement

of the position description, click here


He kōrero mōu: About you


You will have a sound understanding of regulatory policy development, ideally within a local government setting. You will have effective relationship building and communication skills across disciplines and with senior leaders. You will have the ability to influence, be familiar with the principles of integrated risk management and demonstrate empathetic leadership to empower kaimahi to successfully navigate a multi-year work programme within financial, political and resource constraints.


This role requires strong prior experience as a project manager, working with senior leadership within large and complex organisations. You must hold an industry-recognised qualification, such as PRINCE2 or PMP and ideally a strong understanding of the New Zealand planning system.


We will be looking for specific experience with:


Working in highly political environments
Working in partnership with communities and iwi
Understanding of end-to-end planning processes and local government environment.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer


You will be joining a team of dedicated and respected experts working collaboratively across the region to contribute to Auckland’s growth and development. We are committed to diversity, and have a culture built on trust and valuing individual as well as collective contributions.


We also offer:


Career progression, development opportunities; opportunities to change career directions
A fantastic learning environment with in-house training and development from one of the best staff training functions in NZ
Opportunities to work from both home and our central Auckland office as well as a range of staff benefits available to Council employees
Be involved in a diverse variety of exciting and high-profile projects
Networking opportunities across Auckland Council, central government, and the development sector
Applications close on Sunday 15 February 2026 at 11:59pm.

However, please note that early applications are encouraged as interviews will be conducted as and when applications are received – so apply now to avoid disappointment.


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Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE), and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.