Senior Strategic Planner, Future Development

Employing over 500 staff in what is indisputably one of the most stunning locations in the country, Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is at the very heart of a dynamic community. Our services are essential to the people in our region and include infrastructure development, community recreational facilities and planning, building and other regulatory services. 

The Role

We are seeking a dynamic Senior Strategic Planner, Future Development to lead and drive the ongoing development and delivery of the Future Development Strategy (FDS) and the Implementation of the Spatial Plan. You will be responsible for co-ordinating QLDC work streams across all departments, collaborating with interested parties, interfacing with all governmental agencies and ultimately ensuring delivery of the FDS/ Spatial Plan to the satisfaction of QLDC elected members and the Grow Well Whaiora Partnership.

You will be one of the primary points of contact for all central government partners, neighbouring local government bodies, the Otago Regional Council, economic development agencies, regional tourism organisations and chambers of commerce, who may have an interest in the project.

This role operates in a complex and emergent space, one that requires effective and compelling data management, relationship building, collaboration, influencing, advocacy and robust decision making process. You will need to be aware of the future reform of the resource management system and all legislative changes affecting future development.

About You

To be successful, you should possess: 

• Tertiary qualifications in planning or a related discipline.
• Extensive relevant experience in a planning and/ or strategic programme management role (prior experience working in urban growth development or Spatial Planning environment preferred).
• Previous experience in a local or central government setting.
• Proven ability to manage projects and programmes effectively.
• A strong understanding of Te Ao Māori, tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi with existing relationships with iwi, preferably Kāi Tahu.
• Exceptional strategic thinking skills and strategic agility, with the ability to develop frameworks and manage organisation-wide systems and processes. 
• Strong track record in community consultation and engagement processes, with the ability to navigate complex and contentious topics.
• Politically astute and commercially aware.
• Well honed communication skills, negotiation and influencing skills.
• Proven track record of developing and maintaining relationships across a broad range of sectors and stakeholders at a senior level.
• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to effectively manage deadlines.
• Highly motivated, achievement-oriented, resilient, tenacious and innovative professional. 

We Offer

• Competitive market remuneration
• The opportunity to join a great team
• Career progression and training opportunities 
• Flexible working practices and regular working hours
• Subsidised health insurance
• Discounted health and fitness club rates at our great facilities
• Free eye checks and annual flu shots 
• Extra annual leave awarded with years of service 
• Relocation allowance will be considered for the successful candidate

How to Apply 

For more information on this role or to apply, please visit https://qldc.qjumpersjobs.co

Please direct questions to Anita Vanstone on +64 3 450 0334 or via Anita.Vanstone@qldc.govt.nz  to discuss this exciting opportunity in confidence.     

Applications close: 5.00pm Tuesday 11 October, 2022.