Manager Planning Services

Why join us?

• Make a Difference: Contribute to the development of Palmerston North City while enjoying a fulfilling career that positively impacts our community

• Professional Growth: Elevate your career through a range of Learning and Development opportunities at Palmerston North City Council.

• Benefits: We do more than just pay you a salary too. We have awesome benefits to support you including 5 weeks annual leave and hybrid working.

About the role 

We are seeking a strategic, people-focused leader to join our Development and Regulatory Group as the Manager - Planning Services. This pivotal leadership role oversees the delivery of high-quality planning services and plays a key part in the growth, sustainability, and long-term development of our city.

You’ll lead a team of professionals who support planning outcomes aligned with Council strategy, community expectations, and legislative frameworks. Your focus will be on people leadership, strategic alignment, and continuous improvement.

This is a full-time role, 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Providing strategic direction and oversight of all planning functions in alignment with the Council’s Long Term Plan and Group Plan.

• Leading and developing high-performing teams through coaching, clear direction, and a culture of collaboration and excellence.

• Ensuring the effective delivery of services under the Resource Management Act, District Plan, and Local Government Act.

• Building strong working relationships with Rangitāne, iwi partners, Council leaders, developers, consultants, and regional agencies.

About you

You are a confident, forward-thinking leader who will inspire and develop others while contributing to the strategic direction of Council.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• At least 5 years of leadership experience, with proven ability to manage and develop high-performing teams.

• A tertiary qualification in planning or resource management is desirable but not essential.

• Experience working in a planning, resource management, or closely related regulatory environment is desirable.

• Excellent relationship management and communication skills with the ability to build trust and alignment across teams, sectors, and communities.

• Strong analytical and conceptual thinking.

• Experience promoting service improvement, digital innovation, and responsive change management.

About us

Palmerston North (or as we like to call it, Palmy) is a growing, innovative and exciting city. With small city benefits and big city ambition, Palmy has secured its place on the map as a creative and exciting city, with leading innovation and developments! We’re proud to be a city that includes, supports, connects and uses the talents of the whole community in our pursuit to provide a connected and safe community. We’re also a future-focused city who cares about enhancing our natural and built environment. Our future looks bright, it looks vibrant and progressive. 

What we offer:

• Competitive salary between $147,811 and $173,895, plus a 3% Kiwisaver employer contribution (where eligible)

• 5 weeks annual leave and a community service day

• Long service leave after qualifying periods

• Paid parental leave benefits

• Supportive work environment that values work-life balance

• Annual flu vaccinations and subsidised health and eye checks

• Onsite café, staff gym and wellness space

• Study leave, professional memberships, and fees support  

• The opportunity to make a real difference in the future of a vibrant, growing city 

Applications close: 11.00 pm, 27 November 2025

Please note applications will be reviewed as received

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and welcome applications from all those suitably qualified for this position

Job Profile

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