Executive Officer-Hauraki Gulf Forum

Beyond Recruitment is pleased to be partnering with Auckland Council to fill this opportunity.

He angitutanga : The opportunity

The Hauraki Gulf / Tikapa Moana / Te Moananui-a-Toi is one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most treasured and most challenged ecosystems.

The Hauraki Gulf Forum is the statutory body charged with championing its protection and restoration — bringing together Ministers of the Crown, local councils, tangata whenua, and communities.

We are seeking a highly skilled and politically astute leader to serve as Executive Officer to the Forum.

While employed through Auckland Council, you will act independently and on behalf of the Forum and its members.

This role is uniquely positioned at the intersection of environmental leadership, governance, and political strategy.

In this role, you will :

Work directly with the Forum's Co-Chairs, supporting them to deliver on the Forum's ambitious agenda.

Lead the development of annual work programmes and statutory reports to Parliament.

Navigate a complex and highly political environment, engaging with Ministers, Mayors, Iwi leaders, and stakeholders.

Oversee all operational aspects of the Forum — from finance and communications to stakeholder engagement and project delivery.

Champion the Forum's vision for the restoration and long-term wellbeing of the Hauraki Gulf.

He korero mou : About you

You will bring significant senior leadership experience (ideally 15+ years) in a political, environmental, or governance-focused setting.

You will be highly adept at building trust and credibility with diverse stakeholders, including Ministers, Councils, and tangata whenua.

Your ability to operate in complexity, exercise sound judgement, and communicate with impact will be critical.

You will also have :

A relevant tertiary qualification (e.g. law, resource management, planning, strategy, science, or matauranga Maori).

Deep understanding of te ao Maori, te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the practice of kaitiakitanga.

Proven skills in project delivery, stakeholder management, and financial oversight.

Strong political acumen, with the ability to navigate sensitive and high-profile issues.

Why this role matters

This is not a typical council position — it is a role of independence, influence, and responsibility.

You will be at the heart of shaping how the Forum advocates for and delivers on its statutory purpose : to protect and enhance the Hauraki Gulf for current and future generations.

If you are motivated by complex challenges, inspired by the chance to work across political and cultural boundaries, and committed to the health of one of Aotearoa's greatest natural taonga, we encourage you to apply.

Nga ahuatanga kei a matou : What we offer

The role is hosted by Auckland Council through a Service Level Agreement with the Forum.

Auckland Council is the largest local government council across Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people and contributing towards making Tamaki Makaurau a world-class city.

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

You'll have access to a range of fantastic Auckland Council benefits, EAP services, an Oranga Day and discounted Leisure Centre membership and a range of other partnership discounts!

We are a diverse organisation – we value diversity in our thinking, and we can only achieve that with a diverse team!

Ehara taku toa, he takitahi, he toa takitini - My success is not mine alone, but the success of many!

Tono Mai : Apply Now!

For a confidential discussion contact Kris Attewell @ Beyond Recruitment or email

Applications close

: Friday 26th September 5pm

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Note :

Qualification Checks will be conducted along with other relevant pre-employment checks required for employment with Auckland Council.

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

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