Manager People and Culture

Key Selling points

• 12 month fixed term role covering parental leave
• Lead and inspire a diverse team of HR professionals
• Flexible working environment

This is a rewarding role for an experienced manager to support the delivery of New Zealand's biggest event when our team grows from 190 permanent people to approximately 27,000 roles. This is a 12 month fixed term role starting 1 March 2026 covering parental leave.

Mo tenei turanga mahi | about the role

The Manager People and Culture leads a team whose purpose is to facilitate continuous development of our people strategy and associated plans, and deliver on them by providing targeted advice, support and guidance to our managers on people-related issues, while providing an exceptional employee experience across the Commission.

The Commission employs around 190 permanent FTE but this increases to approximately 27,000 roles when we deliver a general election. Within this context, the Manager People and Culture is responsible for the development, delivery and implementation of organisation development (including learning and development) and human resources strategies, systems, frameworks and processes, the delivery of best practice HR services and trusted HR advice throughout the organisation. The Manager People and Culture also provides advice and assurance to the Deputy Chief Executive Enterprise Services, the Executive Leadership Team, the Chief Executive Officer/Chief Electoral Officer and the Board.

The salary band in $170-$189k.

Mohou ake | About you

You will be a strategic thinker and a passionate and inspirational people leader. You will have a deep understanding of HR practices and regulations and you will ensure your team is effectively partnering with the business to build a positive culture and provide exceptional employee experiences.

Your success in this role will require you to be:

• A dedicated people leader committed to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Skilled in developing and implementing HR strategies to drive organisational performance.
• An excellent communicator with a passion for promoting diversity and inclusion.
• Able to develop strategies and lead change management initiatives effectively.
• Someone that thrives in a fast-paced environment and excels at building positive relationships.

Furthermore, the ideal candidate will have the following:

• A relevant tertiary qualification and/or equivalent experience
• 8-10 years leadership experience and demonstrated ability to build capability in a team, across all people and culture functions
• Highly effective planning and organisational skills, including time management and prioritising
• High level of communication and writing skills.

Te Kaitiaki Take Kowhiri | About the Electoral Commission

The Electoral Commission wants every New Zealander to trust, value and take part in parliamentary elections.

Here's your chance to contribute to New Zealand's democracy as part of a small team of electoral experts who design, build and implement processes and systems for Parliamentary elections and referenda. It's an exciting and varied role within a team which is committed, supportive and hands-on.

Why join the Electoral Commission?

The Commission is building an inclusive strength focussed culture where diversity is encouraged and valued and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, orientations and identities. We want to provide a flexible working environment where everyone feels valued and supported. We are happy to discuss what works for you. You will join a team who are here for the right reasons, and we are passionate about what we do.

What's next?

To view the job description or to apply for this role, click 'apply now'. Applications close at 5pm, Thursday 4 December 2025. Interviews will be held during the week beginning 8th December 2025.

If you have any questions regarding the role please contact

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this position.