General Manager Regional Planning

Overview

Join Environment Canterbury as the General Manager for Regional Planning, a pivotal leadership position shaping the future of New Zealand’s largest region. Located in Christchurch, this full-time permanent role involves influencing environmental outcomes and leading key development in regional policies, plans, and strategies within a dynamic legislative environment.

About Environment Canterbury

As the regional council, Environment Canterbury is responsible for managing natural resources including air, soil, water, and land. Working collaboratively with mana whenua Ngāi Tahu, the organisation strives to sustain and enhance the environment for the prosperity of the region. Its core services focus on environmental regulation and protection, community preparedness and hazard response, and public transportation. The council actively responds to evolving national legislation and policy changes while continuing to deliver services to its communities.

Role Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership to the regional planning function and oversee strategy development.
• Offer expert policy advice to senior leadership, elected councillors, and diverse stakeholders.
• Drive the implementation of the new Resource Management System effectively.
• Cultivate strong partnerships with mana whenua, central government, and local authorities.
• Lead and nurture a high-performing team of planning professionals to achieve organizational goals.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a strategic and influential leader in resource management planning and policy, with a proven record of collaborative leadership and relationship management. They will be adept at navigating complex regulatory, political, and stakeholder environments, balancing strategic vision with operational execution and inspiring teams to deliver exceptional results.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in resource planning, resource management, physical or biological sciences, plus a postgraduate qualification.
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in resource management, focused on policy analysis and plan development under the Resource Management Act or equivalent legislation.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex programmes within regulatory or public sector settings.
• At least 2 years in senior management roles responsible for people and multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience collaborating with elected officials, iwi, governmental bodies, and key stakeholders.

Working at Environment Canterbury

Environment Canterbury’s values include stewardship (Kaitiakitanga), integrity (Pononga), people-first approach (Manaakitanga), collaboration (Whanaungatanga), and a proactive mindset (Māiatanga). The organisation celebrates workforce diversity and strives to be a treaty partner of excellence by integrating te ao Māori perspectives into daily work life. Professional development opportunities in kaupapa Māori and te reo Māori are supported and encouraged.

Additional Information

Applications should be submitted online with a CV and cover letter before the closing date of Sunday, 4 October. Early applications are recommended as interviews may start before the deadline, and the advertisement may close early. Shortlisted applicants will undergo interviews, reference, and criminal checks, with further background verification if relevant. Environment Canterbury welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and encourages those who may not meet every qualification to apply.