Principal/Senior Strategy Advisor

About Environment Canterbury

Environment Canterbury is a regional council dedicated to managing natural resources such as air, soil, water, and land by working collaboratively with mana whenua Ngāi Tahu to safeguard the environment’s health and promote a sustainable, prosperous future for the Canterbury region.

The region’s dynamic environmental and political landscape requires us to remain flexible and responsive to regulatory and environmental changes. Our core services focus on environmental regulation and protection, community preparedness and response to hazards, and public transport. We continually adapt to national legislative and policy changes, ensuring ongoing delivery of services to our partners, communities, and environment.

Role Overview

This permanent, full-time position based in Christchurch is integral to expanding Environment Canterbury’s strategic capabilities in regulatory stewardship, strategy, and policy design amid significant environmental and legislative shifts. You will lead the creation of robust, evidence-based advice and collaborate closely with senior leaders to influence strategic directions and outcomes across various portfolios.

Key Duties

• Lead formulation and advancement of strategic and policy advice to enhance regulatory stewardship and system improvements.
• Apply strategic, policy, and design thinking to address complex environmental and regulatory challenges.
• Coordinate across departments to align regulatory frameworks, operating models, priorities, and results.
• Engage with iwi, governmental bodies, and stakeholders to develop practical, sustainable approaches.
• Monitor strategic goal progress and identify necessary regulatory system adjustments.
• Oversee complex, high-risk strategic projects requiring coordinated efforts across teams.
• Support and mentor teams within Strategy & Planning and throughout the organization to develop capabilities.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and influential advisor with a proven history of delivering insightful advice within complex environments. Adaptable to uncertainty, they build trust-based relationships and uphold public value with strong mana whenua partnership. They possess analytical rigor, effective communication skills, and confidence engaging senior stakeholders.

Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years' experience in strategy, policy, or advisory roles.
• Proficient in both quantitative and qualitative analysis.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities.
• Experience in large, complex, or regulated sectors.
• Demonstrated capability in leading programmes or strategic initiatives.
• Strong coaching skills to enhance team capabilities.
• Relevant tertiary qualification, preferably at postgraduate level.

Workplace Values

• Kaitiakitanga (stewardship)
• Pononga (integrity)
• Manaakitanga (people first)
• Whanaungatanga (collaboration)
• Māiatanga (can do attitude)

We embrace diversity to better serve our community and environment, nurturing skills and perspectives from all backgrounds. As a treaty partner on a journey of excellence, we encourage use of kaupapa Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te reo Māori, offering support for personal and professional growth in these areas.

Additional Information

Applicants seeking a confidential discussion can contact Dann Olykan at 027 705 4186. Applications require an online form submission along with CV and cover letter. The closing date is Sunday 2 August; however, early applications are encouraged as interviews may commence prior and the listing may close early. Shortlisted candidates must complete interviews, reference checks, and a criminal record check, with potential further background verification depending on role requirements. We encourage applications even if not all qualifications are met, supporting a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Together we can make a difference.