Group Manager - Assets & Infrastructure

Wairoa District Council is seeking a Group Manager – Assets & Infrastructure (Pouwhakarae Hua Pūmau Hapori me ngā Whaipainga) to join its Senior Leadership Team.

Reporting to the Chief Executive, this role leads the strategic planning and operational delivery of infrastructure and asset management across the district. The position is responsible for supporting effective governance, delivering key community services, and driving longer-term infrastructure planning that aligns with the Council’s vision and values. This is a leadership role with real scope to influence outcomes for the district and support sustainable community development.

Located in northern Hawke’s Bay, Wairoa is a district known for its strong sense of community and connection to whenua. Wairoa District Council plays a central role in supporting the region’s wellbeing through sustainable infrastructure and inclusive services. The organisation is guided by the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, with a commitment to local partnerships, long-term planning, and delivering outcomes that reflect the values of its people.

Key Responsibilities

The Group Manager – Assets & Infrastructure will lead the strategic direction and day-to-day management of core infrastructure services, including land transport, water, compliance, and asset planning. The role requires high-level governance advice, oversight of statutory and financial compliance, and transformational leadership that enhances cross-group collaboration. A key focus is aligning long-term planning with community priorities, while maintaining the effective delivery of services that are safe, sustainable, and future-ready.

• Lead long-term infrastructure and asset management strategies
• Oversee operational delivery of roading, utilities, and compliance services
• Provide strategic reports and advice to governance and executive leadership
• Ensure compliance with financial, statutory, and health & safety obligations
• Manage key stakeholder relationships including iwi and community groups
• Foster a customer-first, collaborative team culture
• Provide leadership of the A&I team so that they are efficient, achieve acceptable levels of performance and personal development
• Drive service transformation and continuous improvement initiatives

What you bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering
• Minimum of 5 years’ senior leadership in infrastructure or multi-service environments
• Deep understanding of asset management and long-term planning
• Proven success with complex stakeholder management
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation and regulatory frameworks
• Excellent people leadership, delegation, and decision-making skills
• Ability to provide sound, strategic governance advice
• Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, sustainability, and community development

This is an opportunity to step into a pivotal leadership role where your expertise will directly shape the future of Wairoa District. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in a community-focused, forward-thinking environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today with your CV and cover letter or contact us in confidence to learn more about this opportunity.

If you want to find out further information, check out our candidate brief pack here: https://www.robertwalters.co.nz/content/dam/robert-walters-redesign/country/new-zealand/files/misc/Candidate-Briefing-Pack-GM-WDC.pdf