Hearings Process Manager - IHP

Overview

• Fixed term until approx. mid 2027
• Hybrid role with flexible working based in Auckland Central. Minimum 3 days per week in office
• Salary will be $119,357 to $140,420 + KiwiSaver contribution
• Have an interest in Auckland’s development and environment
• Passion for helping Aucklanders

The opportunity

This is a fixed term secondment opportunity to work alongside the Hearing Panel Manager to formulate, implement and manage the hearing processes associated with proposed Plan Change 120 Housing intensification and resilience. This will involve establishing processes for hearings, mediation, expert conferences and any other type of alternative dispute resolution. You will need to be forward-thinking to find innovative solutions to achieve the hearings within the timeframe set by central government.

As part of the Independent Hearing Panel Secretariat, you will recruit and lead a small team of Hearing Advisors that will provide superior service to all stakeholders and ensure that statutory timeframes are met.

The role will work closely with the Independent Hearings Panel Manager on a day-to-day basis ensuring excellent, high value relationships are built and maintained with all stakeholders including the IIP Chairperson and panel members, a pool of mediators and facilitators and the participants in the hearings.

You will also need to manage and attend hearings at times and support and coordinate the mediation and expert conferencing sessions.

This is both an exciting and challenging opportunity to be fundamentally involved in one of the largest plan change hearing processes for the largest city in New Zealand.

For a copy of the position description please see here.

About you

You will provide expert advice on the hearing processes to the IHP chairperson and members, the organisation including senior management, elected members, professionals, key external stakeholders and the public. You will need to hit the ground running so previous hearings experience and working in a fast-paced environment is essential.

You will have strong problem-solving skills being able to actively resolve difficult or complex issues using analytical and critical thinking. A high level of political acumen, judgement, diplomacy and negotiation skills are required along with a strong ability to build positive trusting relationships.

What we offer

Auckland Council is the largest local government council across Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people and contributing towards making Tāmaki Makaurau an Auckland we can all be proud of.

We offer a range of employee benefits and proudly support flexible working options where possible.

View a snapshot of some of our employee benefits (HERE).

Help us make a difference to Tāmaki Makaurau.

How to apply

Applications close : Sunday 9 November 2025 @ 11 : 59 pm

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.

#J-18808-Ljbffr