Senior HR Advisor

About Christchurch City Council

Christchurch City Council is devoted to enhancing the quality of life in the city by providing essential services such as water, transport infrastructure, parks, recreation, regulatory services, and community facilities. It is one of the largest regional employers, deeply committed to fostering a thriving community environment.

Role Overview

We are searching for a knowledgeable and practical Senior HR Advisor to join our People & Capability team. This role involves supporting leaders across a broad, diverse organization by offering expert advice on people-related matters and contributing to positive outcomes for staff, teams, and the city itself.

Key Responsibilities

• Mentor and guide leaders to enhance their leadership abilities, promoting a culture focused on accountability, engagement, and high performance.
• Collaborate with leaders to address a range of employee-related concerns with confidence and sound judgement.
• Offer technical expertise to manage employee relations issues such as performance management, disciplinary proceedings, grievances, and workplace investigations, ensuring legal compliance and alignment with organisational values.
• Support the HR Advisory Manager by providing coaching and mentoring to the HR Advisory team to improve their capabilities.
• Assist in change management processes including restructures, transitions, and workforce planning efforts.
• Facilitate training and deliver guidance on people-related subjects to empower both leaders and employees.
• Work in partnership with the People & Capability team to execute HR strategies that align with organisational objectives.

Candidate Profile

• Extensive generalist HR experience within sizable, complex organisations.
• Well-versed in New Zealand employment legislation and best HR practices.
• Proven track record managing complex employee relations and driving organisational change.
• Capability to influence, coach, and constructively challenge leaders.
• Strong communication and relationship management skills.
• Exhibit sound judgement, resilience, and calmness when handling sensitive issues.
• Proactive and results-oriented approach with adaptability to evolving workflows and systems.
• Experience in local government is advantageous.

Benefits

• Opportunities for professional growth through training programs and workshops.
• Flexible working arrangements including options for working from home, adjustable hours, and the ability to purchase additional leave.
• Collaborative work environment offering exposure across various organisational areas.
• Employee benefits such as health schemes and retail discounts.

Additional Information

We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and genuine workplace. Candidates whose experience may not perfectly match the job description are still encouraged to apply. If accessibility support is needed during the recruitment process, candidates can contact us directly for assistance.

• Working hours: Full-time
• Employment type: Permanent position
• Location: Primarily based at Te Hononga, Christchurch City Council Civic Offices, 53 Hereford Street, Christchurch
• Salary range: NZD 96,465 to 107,183 per year (based on a 40-hour workweek), commensurate with experience, skills, and internal comparisons within the team and organisation
• Application deadline: Sunday, 6 September 2026. Recruitment may conclude earlier if a suitable candidate is found.