Open Space Service Delivery Lead

Role Overview

As the Open Space Service Delivery Lead, you will shape and uphold the standards for Napier's parks, sports fields, gardens, trees, cemeteries, playgrounds, water features, trails, and other public spaces cherished by the community.

This senior position is a full-time, 18-month fixed-term contract based in Napier. It involves integrating asset management with operational delivery to define, monitor, and improve service levels that ensure public spaces are maintained effectively and reflect community expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Designing and updating service standards across Napier’s open space network based on best industry practices tailored to local needs.
• Building and fostering strong collaborative partnerships between the Open Space team, City Operations, and other Council departments.
• Implementing systematic auditing and performance reporting processes aligned with agreed service levels.
• Overseeing operational budgets with an emphasis on achieving value for money, quality outcomes, and community satisfaction.
• Planning for asset expansion by appropriately mapping, scoping, and securing funding for new areas.
• Driving continuous improvements in systems, procedures, and frontline service delivery methods.
• Improving cemetery management practices, including system enhancements and recordkeeping.

Candidate Profile

• Extensive background in horticulture, arboriculture, sports turf management, open space management, or related amenities sector.
• Relevant degree or equivalent experience demonstrating deep sector knowledge.
• Proven leadership and the capability to effectively influence multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience in developing, auditing, and monitoring service performance standards.
• Commercial acumen including budget management, contracts oversight, and procurement processes.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Familiarity with Council planning procedures or experience navigating complex organizational environments.
• Adeptness at maintaining leadership, clear expectations, and accountability during periods of change.

Experience in local government, public parks operations, landscape architecture, tree management, or cemetery operations is advantageous; however, the essential factor is comprehensive sector experience applied across a diverse urban portfolio.

Compensation and Work Conditions

• Annual salary ranging from $115,239 to $128,796 NZD inclusive of KiwiSaver, dependent on qualifications and experience.
• The role entails a full-time, 40-hour workweek, Monday to Friday, based at Napier.
• Employee Assistance Program and social club participation with quarterly values recognition.
• Annual free flu vaccinations.
• Opportunities to engage in cultural programs including Ka Awatea Wānanga, NCC Kapa Haka, and Te Reo Māori language classes.
• Flexible work arrangements.

Additional Information

Napier City Council is committed to equal opportunity employment and values diversity. The recruitment process is inclusive, with adjustments available to candidates requiring support.

Applicants will undergo pre-employment checks including criminal background screening; some roles require health assessments and drug and alcohol testing. Employees may be required to assist during Civil Defence emergencies.

Joining offers the chance to live and work in Hawke’s Bay, a region known for its beautiful coastlines, trails, parks, vineyards, and exceptional outdoor lifestyle.