Transformation Manager - Hawke'S Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management

Transformation Manager - Hawke's Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management

Hawke's Bay Regional Council

Our vision is a healthy environment and a resilient and prosperous community.

Overview

Hawke's Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management (HB CDEM) Group is undergoing significant transformation following Cyclone Gabrielle and in response to the evolving challenges of climate change.

Operating as a shared service on behalf of the region's councils, the team takes a regional and strategic approach to building resilience across communities, mana whenua and partners.

With our community at the heart of the civil defence system, our mission is to build strong connections, empower local voices, and enhance collaboration across the region to create a safe, informed and resilient Hawke's Bay that is prepared for, responds to, and recovers from emergencies and disasters.

We are looking for a Transformation Manager to join the HBCDEM team on a fixed term basis (up to 12 months).

The role will lead and coordinate the implementation of the Hawke's Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management Transformation Strategy, the Service Level Agreement (SLA), and changes arising from the independent review following Cyclone Gabrielle.

This role is focused on delivering system-wide change to strengthen community resilience and enhance emergency management capability across the region.

Responsibilities

You will work closely with the Director CDEM, councils, mana whenua, and partner agencies to transition emergency management functions to local authorities, responsibilities, and ways of working in line with the strategic direction set by the HB CDEM Joint Committee.

Additional responsibilities include :

Travel within the region and occasional travel elsewhere in Aotearoa / New Zealand.

Participating in the 24 / 7 duty team roster and performing emergency response and recovery functions as necessary during emergencies.

You will be a competent professional with proven leadership in managing teams through complex change, alongside strong project and programme management capabilities to balance multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills will be key to building trust and influencing diverse stakeholders.

You will demonstrate strategic thinking, analytical acumen, the ability to clearly convey and interpret data, and effective problem-solving in dynamic environments.

Collaborative work practices and a sound understanding of tikanga Maori and Maori values—particularly in relation to emergency management and local government—are also key attributes.

Qualifications

Tertiary qualification in Emergency Management, Public Administration, Change Management, or a related field.

Proven experience in transformational leadership, ideally within emergency management, local government, or the broader public sector.

Strong understanding of emergency management frameworks, regional and local governance structures, and public sector operational processes.

A strong understanding of emergency management principles and practices, particularly around response and recovery.

Valid driver's licence required.

Benefits

Flexible working options to support work / life balance.

Subsidised eye tests and lenses, flu vaccinations, and other well-being initiatives.

Strong commitment to developing and upskilling people within a supportive working environment.

Application

Applications close Friday, 5 December

Please apply through Seek.

If you would like any further information regarding the role, please email

Applicants must have existing rights to work in New Zealand.

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