Head of Legal & Governance (General Counsel)

Shape Council-wide impact. Lead with purpose. Deliver value to our communities.We are seeking a strategic, people-focused leader to join our organisation as Head of Legal & Governance. This is a pivotal role where you'll lead a multifaceted business unit encompassing legal services, governance, LGOIMA, privacy, information management (including LIM and property), and support services.About this role | Kō tēnei tūranga mahiAs Head of Legal & Governance, you'll lead a high-performing business unit covering legal services, governance, LGOIMA, privacy, information management, and democratic support. Reporting to the Executive Director Corporate Services, you'll provide trusted legal and governance advice to senior leaders and elected members, shaping organisation-wide decision-making and ensuring statutory compliance.You'll foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement while aligning your team's work with Council's long-term goals.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide high-level legal and strategic advice to the Executive Leadership Team, Senior Leadership Team, elected members, and business unitsLead and manage the Legal & Governance teams, ensuring effective service delivery and alignment with Council prioritiesOversee legal risk, operations, and contract management, ensuring efficient, compliant processesProvide governance oversight, ensuring legislative compliance and best-practice democratic processesLead Council's approach to information and privacy management, including compliance with the Public Records Act and Privacy ActAct as Deputy Electoral Officer, managing elections, representation reviews, and related responsibilitiesMonitor legislative changes, advise on emerging risks, and report to Council committees on legal, governance, and compliance mattersAbout you | Ko ngā pūmanawa ōuYou're a seasoned legal and governance leader with a strong public sector background and a pragmatic, strategic mindset. You thrive in complex environments, bring sound judgement, and lead with purpose and integrity.You will bring:A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a current New Zealand practising certificate12+ years' post-qualification legal experience, ideally in local or central government, with expertise in public, regulatory, local government, or privacy lawProven senior leadership experience, including managing legal or governance teams and advising executives and elected membersStrong political acumen and an understanding of the social, cultural, and economic context in which Council operatesExperience in legal risk management, strategic planning, and overseeing external legal providersFamiliarity with electoral processes, privacy compliance, and information management frameworksA commitment to transparency, continuous improvement, and public trustAdditional qualifications in public administration, governance, or management (desirable)You also bring the leadership behaviours that matter here:You connect your team's work to Council's purpose, direction, and community outcomesYou champion a customer- and community-focused culture, ensuring services are accessible, inclusive, and responsiveYou lead with a focus on value, outcomes, and accountability — making the best use of public resourcesYou collaborate across the organisation and build strong, respectful relationships with iwi and key stakeholdersYou coach, develop, and grow others while role-modelling integrity and performanceYou lead change with calm and purpose, embedding innovation and continuous improvement across your areas of influenceWhat we offer | Ko ngā painga mōuAt Nelson City Council we believe that taking care of Nelson starts with taking care of our people. We're working to make a positive difference in the lives of our communities. We value integrity, service, and collaboration, and we're committed to being a high-performing, future-focused organisation.We offer:A permanent, full-time senior leadership roleCompetitive remuneration and benefitsFlexible working arrangementsProfessional development and wellbeing supportA collaborative, future-focused work environmentThis is your opportunity to step into a strategic leadership role where your expertise will guide Council's legal and governance landscape and make a lasting impact across Whakatū Nelson.Click here for a copy of the position description.For further enquiries | Ina he pātai anō, whakapā mai: Please contact Abby Kuyk, People & Capability Business Partner at abby.kuyk@ncc.govt.nzAt Nelson City Council, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and has a true sense of belonging. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from diverse ethnicities and cultures, LGBTQ+ communities, neurodivergent individuals, and people with disabilities. If you require any assistance with your application, please don't hesitate to get in touch.