The West Coast Region (Te Kaunihera Whakakotahi o Te Tai Poutini) extends over a distance of 600 km from Kahurangi Point in the north to Awarua Point in the south. The fifth largest region in New Zealand, it is bounded in the east by the Southern Alps and in the west by the Tasman Sea. Nature has endowed the Region with a spectacular environment, with over 80 per cent of the land area under Department of Conservation stewardship.
Within this vast natural setting, the West Coast Regional Council plays a pivotal role in managing the environment from an economic, social, cultural and sustainability perspective. This ensures the community and its future generations will continue to appreciate the work opportunities, environment, spectacular outdoors and life balance offered in this stunning part of New Zealand.
Job Description
Are you passionate about protecting the places that make the West Coast so special? Do you love working with people, leading great teams, and delivering meaningful environmental outcomes for our communities? If so, this could be your next adventure.
We are looking for a capable, collaborative, and values-driven Manager – Environmental Delivery to lead our biosecurity and catchment delivery functions. This is a key leadership role within Council, guiding the teams that help safeguard our region’s biodiversity, water quality, landscapes, and community wellbeing.
What you will be doing In this role, you will provide both strategic and day-to-day leadership for our Environmental Delivery team. You will support the delivery of regional biosecurity and catchment programmes, making sure our work is effective, evidence-based, and aligned with Council’s strategic goals.
You will also:
Lead a multidisciplinary team with warmth, integrity, and professionalism.
Create clear work programmes and foster a culture of teamwork, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
Guide the delivery of the Regional Pest Management Plan and catchment initiatives that improve water quality, reduce erosion, and support sustainable land use.
Work closely with iwi, landowners, community groups, and government agencies to deliver integrated, meaningful outcomes.
Represent Council in regional and national forums, championing West Coast priorities.
Oversee budgets, procurement, and contracts, ensuring value for money and safe, high-quality delivery.
Support innovation, new technology, and adaptive approaches that strengthen our environmental programmes over time.
This role is all about partnership, leadership, and making a real difference for the region we call home.
Desired Skills and Experience
What you will bring We are looking for someone who enjoys leading people and building strong relationships — someone who brings both technical strength and a genuinely collaborative style.
You will ideally have:
At least 10 years’ experience in biosecurity, catchment management, or environmental delivery, including 5 years leading teams.
A recognised tertiary qualification in environmental science, natural resource management, or a related field.
Strong knowledge of environmental legislation and how it applies to regional councils.
Experience working with iwi and integrating mātauranga Māori into environmental programmes.
Excellent communication skills and confidence engaging with a wide range of partners.
Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving ability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Experience managing budgets, contracts, and multi-stakeholder projects.
Most importantly, you will be someone who enjoys working with others to achieve great outcomes for the West Coast.
Why join us? At the West Coast Regional Council, we are proud of our friendly culture and our deep connection to the place we serve. You will be part of a supportive organisation that values balance, wellbeing, and people who genuinely care about our environment.
Apply now and help us continue protecting the natural treasures of the West Coast for generations to come
