Principal Advisor

Permanent | Full Time
About the Role

Are you a strategic, experienced professional who can lead improvement through influence, trusted relationships and practical delivery? Upper Hutt City Council is seeking a Principal Advisor – Operational Improvement and Assurance to join our Operations Group. This is a senior leadership role supporting the Group Manager Operations and wider Operations leadership team to strengthen planning, systems, assurance, project and contract management practice, and organisational performance.

Working across a broad and varied portfolio, you’ll lead business improvement initiatives, provide strategic advice, support policy and planning development, and help embed a culture of continuous improvement across the Operations Group and wider Council.

Key Responsibilities

Provide senior strategic advice, co-ordination and support across the Operations Group
Lead and support business improvement and continuous improvement initiatives
Strengthen planning, delivery, systems, assurance and performance across the Group
Lead improvements in contract and project management practice, including the effective use of NZS 391x contracts
Co-ordinate and lead Operations Group input into corporate projects, strategies, plans, policies and bylaws
Develop and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Influence priorities, decisions, and delivery through co-operation and trusted relationships
Prepare and lead the development of high-quality policies, implementation plans and reports
Evaluate external policy and legislative changes and advocate for good outcomes for Council and the Upper Hutt community
Support the development and maintenance of the Operations Group Business Continuity Plan
What We’re Looking For

A credible senior leader with the ability to influence, guide and bring others with them without relying on direct authority
At least 15 years’ relevant experience, preferably including significant senior experience in local government, infrastructure, operations, policy, planning, project delivery or business improvement
Strong analytical, critical reasoning, problem-solving and judgement skills
Proven experience leading business improvement projects from problem definition through to implementation, adoption and benefits realisation
Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders, managers and technical specialists in a complex organisation
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce clear, evidence-based strategies, plans, policies and reports
A sound understanding of policy development, implementation and how to interpret legislation
Exceptional organisational skills and the ability to co-ordinate diverse functions and activities
Strong consultation, engagement and relationship management skills
Proficiency with Microsoft Office
A relevant tertiary qualification and/or substantial background experience in infrastructure-related strategy, planning, policy or a related field
Why Join Us?

Senior role with the opportunity to influence meaningful operational improvement
Supportive, collaborative team environment
Opportunities for professional development and growth
Make a real difference for the Upper Hutt community
Positive workplace culture guided by Council’s values — where people matter
Wellbeing, development and work-life balance benefits available through Upper Hutt City Council
Ready to apply?

If you’re passionate about operational excellence, continuous improvement and supporting great outcomes for the Upper Hutt community, we want to hear from you.

Applications close 4pm, 19 August 2026.

All applications must include a cover letter, CV

We reserve the right to interview and select candidates prior to the closing date.

PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU MUST HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS ROLE.

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