Manager People and Culture
At Rangitīkei District Council, we know that great outcomes for our communities start with great people.
We're proud of the culture we've built and the difference our people make every day. As local government continues to evolve, we're looking for an experienced and people-focused leader to help shape the next chapter of our organisation.
This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership role where you'll influence organisational direction, build capability, strengthen culture and help lead the workforce through both the opportunities and challenges ahead.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Group Manager Corporate Services, you'll lead the People and Culture function and provide strategic workforce leadership across the organisation.
You'll partner closely with leaders to build capability, support sound decision-making and create an environment where people can do their best work.
Leading a capable and committed team, you'll oversee the full People and Culture portfolio, including:
- Change Management
- Organisational developmen
- Workforce planning
- Employment relations
- Leadership development
- Health, safety and wellbeing
- Payroll
- Workforce reporting and insights
This is a role where you'll be equally comfortable discussing organisational strategy with senior leaders, coaching managers through people challenges, and supporting practical workforce initiatives that make a real difference.
Why This Role Matters
Local government is changing. Communities are changing. Workplaces are changing.
The successful candidate will help ensure Rangitīkei District Council is well positioned to respond, adapt and thrive.
Change can feel uncertain, but in the right hands it can also be positive, energising and full of possibility. We're looking for someone who can bring people with them through that journey.
Someone who can guide, challenge, support and encourage in equal measure and someone who can balance people, process and outcomes while maintaining a strong focus on what matters most.
About You
You are an experienced People and Culture leader who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery.
You understand that leadership is about relationships, influence and trust.
You'll bring:
- Significant experience in senior HR, People and Culture or Organisational Development leadership roles.
- Demonstrated success leading workforce and organisational change initiatives.Strong employment relations knowledge and sound judgement.
- Experience developing leaders and building organisational capability.
- The ability to influence and build credibility across all levels of an organisation.
- Political awareness and confidence operating in complex stakeholder environments.
- A collaborative and values-led leadership style.
Experience within local government would be advantageous, but we're equally interested in candidates who bring strong transferable leadership and workforce experience from other sectors.
Why Rangitīkei
This is the kind of role where you can genuinely see the impact of your work.
You'll join a close-knit organisation where relationships matter, where leaders work collaboratively, and where you'll have the opportunity to influence both people and organisational outcomes.
You'll be part of a team committed to delivering for its communities while continuing to build a workplace culture that enables people to thrive.
If you're looking for a role where you can lead people, shape culture and influence the future, we'd love to hear from you.
Applications
Applications are being managed by PivotHR on behalf of Rangitīkei District Council.
For a confidential discussion, contact Jill Lawler, Director – PivotHR: Jill@pivothr.co.nz
Applications close: Friday 19 June 2026
Who are we
He oranga Whenua, He oranga Tangata, He oranga Wairua. Tihei Mauriora!
At Rangitīkei District Council, we believe in bringing together thoughts, perspectives, and expression from all kinds of backgrounds. Our team strive to create a space and culture where you feel like you belong. We also believe in a balance between work and play that allows you to enjoy life.
Values
We are driven by our values.
Our smaller structure means when you join RDC you can make a real difference. Our close-knit team have an impact on one another and the local community every day.
The Rangitīkei District Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, we welcome and support people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, religions and those with disabilities or are neurodiverse.