Principal Policy Advisor

1 day ago

Thames Waikato, New Zealand Thames-Coromandel District Council Full time

Are you the kind of person who can read the Local Government Act without needing a nap? Who doesn't just know the long-term planning process but
owns
it? Perfect—because we need someone who can hit the ground sprinting.

We're on the hunt for a Principal Policy Advisor to join our small team. Someone who can help set direction, align activities, and make sense of the strategic big picture. And if you've mastered the mysterious world of bylaws too? Well, that's the cherry on top.

What you'll be doing

  • Driving our organisation's strategic direction setting and implementation via our long term plans
  • Preparing and reviewing bylaws, policies, and strategies
  • Turning legislation speak into plain English so others can actually understand it
  • Helping our Council make smart, informed decisions for our communities
  • Supporting our small team to achieve quality results.

We're looking for someone who:

  • Already speaks fluent Local Government—LTPs, bylaws, legislation, the whole works
  • Can step into the role and be fully competent from day one (training wheels not included)
  • Has a knack for shaping direction
  • Brings excellent communication, judgement, independence, and the ability to work with others
  • Thrives on managing cross-council planning and policy projects.

Why you'll love it here

Sure, the work is serious—but we don't take ourselves too seriously. We offer:

  • A supportive, high-performing team that believes in trust and accountability
  • Flexibility and a range of benefits so you can live the life you choose
  • The chance to make a real impact on how we support our communities.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Closing date: Thursday 8th January 2026 at 9.00pm

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