Ko wai mātou - Who are we
Te Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu - New Plymouth District Council is a local government organisation located in the heart of New Plymouth. Our vision is to be the Sustainable Lifestyle Capital, and our district boasts a spectacular natural beauty from Taranaki Maunga to the moana. In 2021, we were awarded the most liveable city (for a population between 75,000 and 150,000) by the International Awards for Liveable Communities. We work collaboratively with iwi, Government, not-for-profits and businesses to achieve outcomes that benefit our community.

Te āheinga - The opportunity
NPDC is seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to fill the role of Legal Services Lead. This pivotal position will play a crucial role in providing high-quality legal support and advice to facilitate the achievement of NPDC's purpose and strategic priorities. The successful candidate will demonstrate leadership qualities, exceptional legal acumen, and a strong commitment to customer service excellence.

Tino takohanga - Key responsibilities
Legal Services:

• Provide robust and practical internal legal advice to managers and council staff
• Provide high quality researched and best practice advice on relevant legislation to stakeholders
• Manage legal services contracts with external providers to ensure the provision of effective and value adding services and advice to the Council
• Ensure that legal delegation processes are promoted and well managed to guide managers to work within their assigned accountabilities/delegations

General:

• Regular reporting to the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee on legal and litigation matters
• Establish and maintain strong relationships across the business
• Lead the team to grow organisational capability to achieve recommended best practice and to delivery of council's vision
• Actively ensure that good employer obligations and legislative requirements are fulfilled, particularly in relation to all key relevant legislation

Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako - Essential skills and experience:

• Degree in Law and hold a current New Zealand Practising Certificate
• Minimum of eight years' experience in provision of legal services in an in-house role for a local or central government agency or in a private law firm with a public sector client base
• A good understanding of Property, Commercial Law and/or Resource Management Act experience
• Ability to provide practical advice and review of documentation

He aha ai a Taranaki? - Why Taranaki?
With the stunning Mt Taranaki as a backdrop and the warm iron sands along our coast, it is no wonder Taranaki is one of the best regions in New Zealand and the world. In Taranaki it's easy to achieve an enviable lifestyle without having to compromise your career. Our regions' dynamic surf, multitude of parks and gardens, iconic walkways, major events calendar and mountain playground make this the place to live!

Ōu mātou rourou - What we offer
At the New Plymouth District Council we aim to create and sustain a truly rewarding workplace environment for our staff including solid career pathways, learning and development opportunities as well as personal and professional development.

You can expect to start in this permanent, full-time role with us between $127,341 and $145,735. We have also put together an 'Our Peoples Package' that spans wellbeing, development, benefits, culture and recognition.

If you think this sounds like you, then we would love to hear from you! Apply now!

Applications close on Sunday, 28 April 2024.