• Lead a flagship zero-waste initiative that will set the standard for community-led resource across Tāmaki Makaurau.
• Work in partnership with passionate stakeholders and help shape a facility that supports local communities and Auckland’s Zero Waste by 2040 goal.
• Drive real change in a hands-on leadership role that combines strategy, collaboration, and innovation in a fast-evolving environment.

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Auckland Council has an exciting fixed term (18 months), full-time opportunity for a Transition Leader to support the development of the Waitākere Resource Recovery Park (WRRP). This role will lead the integration of existing operations—including the Refuse Transfer Station, Zero Waste Zone, and Tipping Point Hub (Community Recycling Centre)—into a unified, jointly managed facility delivered in partnership with MPHS Community Trust.

You’ll be responsible for developing and rolling out new processes and systems to support the day-to-day running of the site during and after the transition. This includes working closely with teams, contractors, and community partners to make sure things run smoothly and changes are well embedded. It’s a hands-on role that will require flexibility, collaboration, and a good understanding of operational change.

The WRRP is set to play a big part in Auckland’s journey to zero waste by 2040. This is a great opportunity to be involved in something meaningful helping create a site that leads by example in the Resource Recovery Network and supports local communities to reduce waste and embrace more sustainable practices.

You could expect to:

• Build strong, collaborative relationships with all site partners including MPHS Community Trust, the Zero Waste Learning Centre, Council staff, and contractors to ensure timely delivery of initiatives, effective issue resolution, and productive input into site planning.
• Facilitate constructive discussions and resolve tensions in ways that build trust, enhance transparency, and reinforce commitment to the WRRP vision.
• Support operator involvement in the design and redevelopment of the site to ensure practical and effective outcomes.
• Promote innovation by challenging the status quo; investigating, trialling, and presenting new ideas for waste diversion and improved operations, with recommendations made to the Project Strategy Group.
• Foster a culture of openness, creativity, and responsible risk-taking (without compromising health and safety) across all site activities.

Please view the position description attached HERE

The renumeration range for the role is $118,000 – $132,000 pro rata depending on skillset and experience.

He kōrero mōu: About you

The ideal candidate will have over 7 years’ experience managing commercial or government operations, or leading transformational change within large, complex, and politically influenced environments. As a confident and charismatic leader, you will guide people through the journey of change. Building strong relationships and influencing outcomes through collaboration rather than control.

You bring solid business acumen, sound financial management skills, and the ability to stay composed and resilient under pressure. In a multi-partner setting you recognise innovation, adaptability, and stakeholder engagement are the keys to success.

We will be looking for specific experience with the key role requirements:

• A tertiary qualification in environmental science, business administration or similar would be an advantage.
• Technical and commercial understanding of waste diversion initiatives and opportunities desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to suit different audiences.
• Strong facilitation skills combined with a strategic mindset, essential for success in this role.
• Valid, current and clean full driving licence

We still encourage you to apply if you have some but not all these requirements.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: 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 a world-class city. We offer a range of employee benefits and proudly support flexible working options where possible.

Help us make a difference to Tāmaki Makaurau. View a snapshot of some of our employee benefits Here

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

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

Applications close: Tuesday 3rd June 12am NZST

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

#workingforauckland #WasteSolutions #WasteManagement #WasteLeadership #TransformationalChangeLead #EnvironmentalCareers #Sustainability #Auckland2040plan

This position is deemed a safety-sensitive position and will require pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.

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.