Strategic Project Manager - Climate Change & Resilience

See below the role, outlining the responsibilities and skills we are looking for, for this vacancy.

Strategic Project Manager - Climate Change & Resilience

Whakatane, New Zealand

Reference :

• Join a fun, supportive team
• Five weeks' annual leave

The people at Whakatāne District Council love what we do because we do it for others, and that feels good. We work hard and we know it's important to stop and play too. We're on a learning journey because we know we can always do better, and we know we're better together. Will you come on that journey with us? In return, you'll get access to a range of staff benefits including flexible working arrangements, an extra week's annual leave and free or discounted access to our community facilities. You'll never be more than half an hour away from rivers, lakes, forests, beaches and great walks - most are just on your doorstep. We love this place, and you will too.

We're looking for a strategic leader to help shape a resilient, low-carbon future for Whakatāne District. As our Strategic Project Manager - Climate and Resilience, you'll lead the delivery of Our Climate Strategy, driving organisation-wide adaptation and resilience outcomes. This role combines climate expertise, strategic thinking, and project leadership to embed climate response across Council planning, policy, and investment decisions.

You'll be our principal advisor on climate resilience, translating national direction into local action, influencing decisions at every level, and building strong partnerships with iwi, community groups, and government agencies. Your work will help ensure our district is informed, prepared, and future focused.

Ko wai koe | About you

You're an experienced professional with a strong background in climate adaptation, resilience, or strategic policy. You bring deep technical knowledge, excellent analytical skills, and the confidence to provide expert advice to senior leaders and elected members. You thrive in complex environments and know how to turn strategy into action.

What you'll bring

Join us in shaping a resilient, low-carbon future for our communities.

Me pēhea te tono mai | How to apply

If you're passionate about making a tangible impact and thrive in a strategic, collaborative environment, we'd love to hear from you.

We're looking to recruit someone who can join us in the new year, ideally starting in February or March 2026.

If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Lou Hunt, Manager Climate Change & Resilience on or apply now via our Careers site.

We aim to deliver outstanding services so that present and future generations can continue to enjoy our sensational lifestyle and superb, natural environment.

Discover the benefits – Whāia ngā hua

What's in it for you? Read more about how we value our staff, and the cherries on top.

If you need any questions answered, please feel free to send us an email. We'd be more than happy to help!

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