Climate Adaptation and Risk Lead
Northland Regional Council’s role is to care for and protect Taitokerau Northland's environment and communities. Does that resonate with you?
Ko te aha ā mātou mahi? / What work do we do?
We’re focused on creating a healthy environment, strong economy and resilient communities - matching our skills and resources with the vision and aspirations of our people. Our mahi involves working in partnership with tāngata whenua and our communities to protect and care for our waters, land, air and native life, while building our region’s resilience and adapting to a changing climate. When you join us, you’re part of something bigger- helping Taitokerau thrive for generations to come.
Toitū te whenua, toitū te moana, toitū te tangata. If the land is well, if the sea is well, the people will thrive.
Te āheinga / The opportunity
We’re looking for a forward-thinking Climate Adaptation and Risk Lead to drive the delivery of the Te Taitokerau Climate Adaptation Strategy. This fixed-term opportunity through to 30 June 2027 will see you take the lead on this region-wide programme shaping how communities respond to climate related risks. You will play a pivotal role in securing funding, overseeing programme coordination, and ensuring ongoing momentum.
At the heart of this role is collaboration. You’ll build strong, trusted relationships across local government, iwi and hapū, and partner agencies, supporting a cohesive, region-wide approach to adaptation planning. From coordinating the operational working group that supports the Joint Climate Change Adaptation Committee, to strengthening capability across organisations, you’ll help ensure adaptation efforts are aligned, actionable, and embedded into council planning and policy frameworks. You’ll also support community-led adaptation, enabling inclusive and locally driven responses to climate challenges.
This is a highly visible role that blends leadership, engagement, and delivery. You’ll champion climate risk awareness across the region, lead public-facing engagement initiatives, and work alongside communities to build resilience through clear communication and practical action. With responsibility for project and contract management, including oversight of budgets and external partners, you’ll bring both strategic vision and operational excellence to this important kaupapa—helping shape a more resilient future for Te Taitokerau.
He kōrero mōu / About you
We are looking for someone with a strong foundation in planning, science, engineering or a related discipline, combined with significant experience leading complex programmes and shaping strategy and policy. You bring a high-level understanding of climate change risks and resilience, and the ability to navigate complexity, provide clear direction, and drive practical, well-informed outcomes.
You are a confident, influential communicator who builds trusted relationships across communities, tangata whenua, technical experts and senior leaders. Collaborative and solutions-focused, you deliver high-quality advice with integrity and impact. You also demonstrate a strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, with an understanding of te ao Māori and a dedication to meaningful partnership with tangata whenua.
Ko te aha ngā painga o te mahi kei konei? / What are the benefits of working here?
Just as you care about your community and environment, NRC cares about you and your wellbeing. Our organisation celebrates collective efforts and achievements and recognises every individual for their contributions and dedication to their mahi.
We understand the importance of flexibility, so we’re committed to alternative working arrangements for our staff. We offer a range of flexible work arrangements to suit our people’s varied lifestyles, commitments and cultural needs.
Tono mai / Apply
The mahi we do really makes a difference, so if you are motivated to help nurture our region’s taiao, we are keen to learn more about you. Want to have a kōrero with us first, or just need more information? If so, contact our Climate Action & Natural Hazards Manager, Natalie Child (Nataliec@nrc.govt.nz). To view the job description, visit our careers site where the following link will work: JD: Climate Adaptation & Risk Lead
Applications close on 22 June 2026
We review applications as they are received. Apply online now, as the close date may change. Please note that we do not accept email applications.
Applicants for this position should have NZ residency/citizenship, or a valid NZ work visa.