Forest Systems Manager

Join the Nelson City Council and play a key role in shaping sustainable forest management.

Following the work completed by the Right Tree Right Place Taskforce, Council has made the decision to transition all its current commercial forests to amenity forests of a continuous canopy of mixed species and for all forested lands to be managed as a single, multi-purpose forest system encompassing conservation, water and landscape reserves. The approach will take into account biodiversity, recreation, ecosystem health, realistic costs and mitigating major risks.

The role will take the lead in the management of Council’s 10,000 hectare estate and implementation of the Council adopted Right Tree Right Place Taskforce recommendations.

Kō tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role :

In this role, you will :

• Develop and deliver long-term strategic plans ensuring Council's vision with respect to its forested lands are realised
• Develop forest management strategies that aim to protect biodiversity, mitigate major risks, reduce pest damage and are fiscally responsible and practical.
• Collaborate with a range of stakeholders including community groups and investors to ensure tangata whenua and intergenerational input plus private and public investment in all future forest management
• Manage budgets and resources efficiently while ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and policies

Ko ngā pūmanawa ōu | About you :

To succeed in this position, you should have :

• A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience in the natural sciences (eg. forestry / soil / agricultural science, resource management, environmental science).
• Excellent understanding of and practical experience in forest transition management principles and practices including sound commercial acumen, understanding of biodiversity, climate change and pest management.
• Demonstrated experience in effective cost / benefit and affordability analysis and proven track record in identifying opportunities to raise revenue.
• Experience in programme / project development, management, delivery and monitoring
• High level of communication and relationship management skills with the ability to bring partners together
• An understanding of and commitment to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Ko ngā painga moū | What we offer :

The Nelson City Council believes in supporting our employees’ well-being and professional growth. We offer a competitive salary package, health insurance, generous leave provisions, hybrid working options, and ongoing professional development opportunities. You’ll enjoy a vibrant and supportive workplace, plus the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community. Financial support towards relocating to our beautiful region is also on offer.

If you’re passionate about sustainable forest management and excited about leading innovative practices, we want to hear from you!

Ina he pāti anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries : Please contact Abby Kuyk, People & Capability Business Partner, at [email protected].

Applications close Sunday 30 March 2025 - we will be reviewing applications as we receive them, so don't delay - apply today!

Click here to view the job description.

Working together to make Nelson an even better place"

Nelson City Council is an organisation filled with supportive people who love this beautiful city of ours. We have amazing weather and a breathtaking natural environment to play in, it’s a great place for all ages.

Requirements