Auckland Council seeks a strategic, credible leader for the Manager Secretariat of the Auckland Regional Transport Committee, a joint statutory committee hosted by Auckland Council and accountable to the Council and the Ministry of Transport (from 1 July 2026 the Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport). This full‑time onsite role leads the Secretariat to shape long term transport planning across Auckland, align central and local government, and guide investment decisions with robust, evidence based advice. The ideal candidate brings senior program leadership in large, multi disciplinary settings, exceptional relationship building and influencing skills, and a strong grasp of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Applications close 8 July 2026; PD link provided.
He angitūtanga: The opportunity
This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping Auckland’s transport future. Accountable to Auckland Council and the Ministry of Transport, the Manager Secretariat will lead the support function for the Auckland Regional Transport Committee (ARTC) – a newly established joint statutory committee responsible for long-term transport planning across the region. The role will be hosted by Auckland Council.
The ARTC brings together central and local government to align priorities, guide investment decisions and improve transport outcomes for Auckland over the next 30 years. As Manager Secretariat, you will sit at the centre of this work – providing strategic leadership, executive support and coordination to ensure the committee is well positioned to make informed, evidence-based decisions. You will drive agendas, reporting and engagement to meet statutory and long-term objectives.
This role will suit someone who thrives in complex, multi-stakeholder environments and enjoys bringing people, priorities and ideas together to achieve meaningful outcomes at regional scale.
He kōrero mōu: About you
We're looking for a strategic and credible leader who is comfortable operating in complexity and motivated by the opportunity to shape Auckland’s long-term transport future.
You'll bring senior-level experience leading significant programmes or strategic initiatives within large, multi-disciplinary organisations, you know how to work through others to bring people together, influence direction and drive progress. Equally comfortable thinking strategically and managing detail, you can shape and deliver work programmes, critically assess information and advice, and ensure decision-making is grounded in robust, fit-for-purpose analysis.
Your ability to build trusted relationships and communicate with influence will be key to success. You'll bring the confidence and judgement to engage effectively at senior levels, working across central and local government, transport agencies and stakeholder groups, while supporting positive engagement with Ministers, the Mayor, Councillors, officials and the wider public. As a skilled communicator you can translate complex issues into clear, practical advice and navigate contested issues with diplomacy, credibility and sound judgement.
You'll also bring a strong understanding of government and/or local government operating environments, ideally with established networks that enable effective collaboration and positive outcomes for Aucklanders. Importantly, you will understand the role of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in public leadership, including the obligations of central and local government and Auckland’s unique te ao Māori context, bringing a thoughtful and inclusive approach to partnership and engagement.
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
This is a rare opportunity to play a role in supporting a new and unique committee to shape Auckland’s long-term transport future. Sitting at the intersection of central and local government, you will have the chance to work alongside senior leaders and contribute to outcomes that will have a lasting impact for Aucklanders.
You can find a copy of the position description HERE.
Applications close Wednesday, 8th July 2026
Note: as of 1 July 2026 the Ministry of Transport will be incorporated into the Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport.
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.