Head of People & Capability

We don’t want to use the phrase “once in a lifetime opportunity” but that’s really what this is. There is endless opportunity for a strategic, people-obsessed leader to take this team and role to the next level and to influence and shape the future direction of our district.We have a mandate for change – from our Elected Members and from our customers. We’re transforming to meet the future, and we need a leader to reshape our People & Capability framework and set the blueprint that will springboard our success.We’re on the hunt for a brave and bold leader who gets that our people are our greatest asset and to run with that. Who understands who we are and that embedding tikanga and a Te Ao Maaori viewpoint into everything we do is part of our DNA.This is a critical leadership position, reporting to the General Manager Enterprise Optimisation and Services, and working closely with The Executive Team to ensure we attract, develop and retain a high-performing workforce. If future-proofing our district for generations to come and developing the potential of our kaimahi gets you excited – then this is the role you!What you’ll do/ Ngaa mahi ka kawea e koe:Lead and deliver a people and capability strategy aligned with our priorities and iwi aspirationsCoach and support a skilled HR team focused on delivering best-practice servicesOversee workforce planning, organisational design and change leadership initiativesChampion diversity, inclusion and cultural competency across people practicesDesign and embed learning, development and leadership pathwaysStrengthen employee engagement and create safe, supportive work environmentsProvide strategic advice to senior leaders and build strong stakeholder relationshipsDevelop and optimise HR systems and analytics to deliver meaningful people insights and enhance evidence-based decision-makingDevelop how we incorporate Te Ao Maaori values into all HR practices and disciplines, embed Te Reo Maaori across the organisation and develop our tikanga closely with Manu Taaiko – our Maaori partnerships teamWhat You Bring/ Ngaa Taonga Kawea Mai e KoeSenior leadership experience in HR or people and capability roles within medium–large organisationsProven ability to implement and lead sound HR disciplines that intersects people, our customers and communities, and strategyProven ability to lead through change, deliver transformation and develop people strategiesStrong knowledge of Aotearoa’s employment legislation and employment relationsExperience working in unionised environments and navigating complex ER mattersEmpathetic, culturally aware and confident in building trusted relationships across diverse teamsCommitment to te ao Maaori, with understanding of or willingness to learn tikanga and Te Tiriti o WaitangiCollaborative and courageous, with a values-led leadership style and a continuous improvement mindsetTo learn more about the role, please explore the candidate briefing packFollow this link to explore more about Waikato District Council and hear directly from Chief Executive Craig Hobbs in a short video about the opportunities happening right now - https://www.robertwalters.co.nz/microsites/waikato-district-council.htmlHow To ApplyApplications are now open for this impactful leadership opportunity. Don‘t wait – get in touch with us or chat today.Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence in this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Sarah Mowbray on +64 4 471 9723.