General Manager Transport Performance and Optimisation

About Auckland Council

Auckland Council is undergoing substantial governance reforms in transport, reintegrating planning, delivery, and management of the region's transport network under Council's jurisdiction. As part of this transformation, a newly formed senior leadership team is being established to spearhead this vital initiative for Tāmaki Makaurau.

About the Role

The General Manager Transport Performance and Optimisation holds a senior leadership position with responsibility for enhancing performance, safety, sustainability, and customer satisfaction across Auckland's transport system. This executive role defines strategic direction, aligns with council and regional priorities, and guarantees that the transport network supports safe, efficient, and sustainable mobility for residents. Collaboration spans across Auckland Council, Council Controlled Organisations, government bodies, mana whenua, and community stakeholders to maximize network outcomes and support growth, climate goals, and urban development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and execution of transport performance and optimisation strategies aligned with Auckland Plan and statutory requirements.
• Deliver authoritative advice on transport system performance, investment, risks, and opportunities to senior leaders and elected officials.
• Represent Auckland Council in regional and national transport optimisation discussions.
• Manage network operations planning to boost reliability, efficiency, and resilience.
• Drive road network optimisation projects including demand management, performance monitoring, and data-driven interventions.
• Supervise the Auckland Transport Operations Centre ensuring integrated network management and incident responsiveness.
• Oversee the Harbourmaster function, ensuring safe, regulatory-compliant management of waterways and maritime environments.
• Provide executive leadership on transport safety, embedding Safe System principles into planning, design, and operational workflows.
• Promote sustainability and climate objectives focusing on emissions reduction, resilience, and evidence-based decision-making.
• Facilitate integration of active transport modes such as walking, cycling, and micromobility to encourage mode shift and accessibility.

Candidate Profile

• At least 15 years’ experience managing complex transport, infrastructure, or urban systems with leadership over extensive multidisciplinary portfolios.
• Minimum 10 years in senior leadership roles, directing diverse teams and influencing executives.
• Proven ability to establish strategic direction and convert long-term plans, statutory obligations, and political priorities into actionable outcomes.
• Experience managing system-level challenges balancing performance, safety, sustainability, and customer service across an interconnected network.
• Extensive background in capital programme planning, prioritisation, and optimisation over extended periods.
• In-depth knowledge of New Zealand transport sector, funding mechanisms, and infrastructure investment frameworks.
• Strong relationship building and collaboration skills with local government, CCOs, central government, mana whenua, and community partners.
• High political awareness, sound judgement, and discretion handling sensitive and complex issues.

Additional Information

This role is a unique opportunity to shape Auckland’s transport future at the executive level during a time of substantial governance reform reshaping Council’s transport delivery functions.

Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday 16 August 2026.

Auckland Council values diversity and inclusion and encourages applicants from all backgrounds. Support and access needs can be communicated during application to assist through recruitment.

Privacy Notice: Personal information will be collected to assess your application, including references from current or previous employers if shortlisted. Consent is required for reference checks; without it, the application may not proceed. Applicants can contact the Council's Privacy Officer for personal information access or correction.