Senior Advisor Policy and Advocacy

They advocate for local government on critical issues, decode policy and make submissions. They connect members through networks, sector events and a must-attend annual conference that brings everyone together. And they lead best practice in local government as well as building council capability through learning, development and consulting.

Te āhua o te tūrunga | The nature of the position Reporting to the Policy Manager, the Senior Advisor will play a key part in supporting LGNZs goal to ensure the key issues which matter to councils and the communities they serve are front and centre for central government.

The role is broad in scope. Rather than being buried in deep technical details, its key function is to apply a strategic approach in understanding issues and opportunities for local government. There is an ability for this role to work across the broad remit and interests of local government.

The Senior Advisor will engage with councils (elected members and council staff) and use this intelligence, alongside other analysis to inform the development of robust evidence-based advice and advocacy to further promote good outcomes for councils and their communities.

Ngā tino pūkenga me wheako | Essential knowledge, skills and experiences You will likely be working in a strategy or public policy role within a ministry, or similar organisation, and have a broad policy background, sound understanding of the fundamentals of policy, and comfort across a wide range of policy contexts. You ideally will have a grounding in economics, although this is not essential.

You may be working at the senior level looking to broaden your experience or could be an ambitious advisor who is ready to take the next step in their career. You could be looking for a shift in focus and an opportunity to make a more direct and visible difference in the work they do.

You will be an analytical thinker, someone who loves learning new things, creative problem solving, and seeing the bigger picture. As a natural collaborator, you will enjoy and see value in working across teams and LGNZs members to join the dots and make meaningful connections.

The current political environment is fast paced and ever changing, so you will enjoy making quick decisions and getting stuck in, you will be someone who thrives and is both flexible and comfortable to work with and navigate ambiguity, with of course the support of your wider team.

An understanding of local government in Aotearoa New Zealand and the role of membership organisations like LGNZ is desirable. Alongside this, strong written and verbal communication skills are essential. An understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and te ao Māori would be valuable.

Tā mātou e tuku |Whats on offer LGNZ takes the opinions and needs of its people seriously. LGNZ people say that they appreciate working in an environment that is supportive, flexible, creative, positive and fun. LGNZ has identified that the success of its team depends on feeling connected, appreciated, inspired, curious, optimistic and supported. These are real sentiments identified by the people who work for LGNZ.

Other benefits you will enjoy:

Please note all applications will be acknowledged electronically. Applications for this role close at 12pm on Wednesday 4 th June.

Only people with the right to work in New Zealand for a period of greater than 2 years may apply for this position. For advice on obtaining a New Zealand work or residence visa visit

Information :

• Company : INSIDE Recruitment
• Position : Senior Advisor Policy and Advocacy
• Location : Wellington, North Island
• Country : NZ