Waters Manager - 6 month contract - Waikato

Waikato District Council (WDC) is committed to building Liveable, Thriving & Connected Communities. In preparation for the transition of water services to IAWAI (Flowing Waters), a joint Waters CCO with Hamilton City Council, we are seeking an experienced and strategic interim Waters Manager to support the current permanent Waters Manager and lead critical initiatives during this period of change.

This role will play a pivotal part in ensuring the successful delivery of water services while shaping the future operating model for WDC post-transition.

The Role:
Reporting to the Waters Manager, you will provide leadership and programme management expertise to support both business-as-usual (BAU) operations and the establishment of IAWAI. You will also collaborate across the organisation to align current ways of working with future requirements. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to one of WDC’s most significant functions and help shape the future of water service delivery in the region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Waters Manager in managing BAU operations and overseeing the Watercare contract.
• Lead and coordinate key workstreams related to the transition to IAWAI, ensuring alignment with council objectives and central government policies.
• Develop and implement effective plans, processes, budgets, and risk management strategies using best-practice programme management approaches.
• Collaborate with internal teams, external stakeholders, and partnering councils to ensure seamless integration and alignment of water services.
• Provide strategic advice on future operating models for WDC post-transition, including shared services and stormwater management.
• Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders to ensure positive outcomes for communities.
• Monitor progress against agreed scope, schedule, budget, and quality standards, addressing risks or issues proactively.

What We’re Looking For:

• Proven experience in programme or project management within water operations or infrastructure sectors
• A relevant tertiary qualification in engineering, environmental science, business management, or a related field
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of delivering successful business transitions
• Strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to navigate complex political environments
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills with a collaborative approach to problem-solving
• Commercial acumen and experience managing contracts or financial processes effectively
• Knowledge of local government operations is highly desirable.

What’s on Offer:
This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on water service delivery in Waikato District while contributing to a major regional initiative. You’ll benefit from:

• The chance to work on high-profile projects that directly impact communities.
• A supportive team environment that values innovation and collaboration.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within a dynamic organisation.

How to Apply:
If you are ready to take on this challenging yet rewarding role, we would love to hear from you! Please submit your CV or for more information about this role or Waikato District Council’s vision for Liveable, Thriving & Connected Communities, please contact Peter Swinney at peter.swinney@robertwalters.co.nz.

Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence within this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Peter Swinney on +6493747330.