Whakatāne District Council Looking for Manager Health, Safety and Wellbeing at Whakatane, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand Full Time

Reference: 6718529

• Lead a bold new strategy
• Join a dynamic organisation committed to innovation, continuous improvement, and embedding safety into all we do
• Enjoy 5 weeks annual leave and a hybrid working environment

We are looking for a strategic and dynamic leader to take charge of implementing our refreshed Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Strategic Plan. Following a recent in-depth audit, we are ready to take bold steps to enhance our health and safety culture and ensure our priorities align with best practices and our people’s needs. If you’re ready to lead this transformation, we want to hear from you!

Ko wai mātau | About us

The people at Whakatāne District Council love what we do because we do it for others, and that feels good. We work hard and we know it’s important to stop and play too. We’re on a learning journey because we know we can always do better, and we know we’re better together.

Will you come on that journey with us? In return, you’ll get access to a range of staff benefits including flexible working arrangements, an extra week’s annual leave and free or discounted access to our community facilities. You’ll never be more than half an hour away from rivers, lakes, forests, beaches and great walks – most are just on your doorstep. We love this place, and you will too.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

As the Health, Safety & Wellbeing Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving the delivery of our newly developed strategic plan and priorities for health, safety, and wellbeing. You’ll lead from the front, providing expert guidance and encouraging a culture of proactive engagement across the organisation. Managing a small, high-performing team, you’ll ensure our frameworks, programmes, and initiatives meet legislative requirements, deliver measurable improvements, and reflect our organisational values.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading the implementation of our Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Strategic Plan, ensuring alignment with audit recommendations and organisational priorities.
• Providing expert advice to influence decision-making and embedding a culture of safety and wellbeing.
• Partnering with people leaders to equip them with the tools and training needed to manage risks effectively.
• Building collaborative relationships with staff, iwi, and external stakeholders to foster trust and engagement.
• Designing and delivering innovative wellbeing initiatives that promote physical, mental, and emotional health.
• Monitoring and reporting on progress, ensuring continuous improvement and celebrating successes.

Ko wai koe | About you

This is a rare opportunity to take a leading role in transforming and shaping the future of health, safety, and wellbeing in our organisation. We need the right person for the job!

Ideally You’ll Have

• A tertiary qualification in Occupational Health and Safety, Wellbeing, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in delivering strategic health, safety, and wellbeing programmes.
• Proven leadership skills with a focus on team development and collaboration.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to build trust and influence across all levels.
• Practical knowledge of key legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
• A track record of leading organisational change and driving measurable improvements.
• A full, clean, current driver’s license and willingness to undergo pre-employment checks.

Ngā whaipainga |Our values

• We’re always learning and improving – Toitū te Taumata
• We’re passionate and proud – Toitū te Mauri Ora
• We work as one team – Toitū te Mahi Tahi
• We put people at the heart of everything we do – Toitū te Tangata
• We care about our environment – Toitū te Taiao

Me pēhea te tono mai | How to apply

This is a rare opportunity to take a leading role in shaping the future of health, safety, and wellbeing in our organisation. You’ll work in a collaborative environment where your ideas and leadership will make a real impact. We are committed to embedding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation.

If you’re ready to lead this exciting new phase and implement a strategic vision that makes a difference, send us your CV and a cover letter explaining your experience and what you’ll bring to this role.

We are keen to welcome the successful candidate to our team ASAP so will be watching applications as they come in and hiring as soon as we find the right candidate. So don’t delay in submitting your CV and cover letter.

For any further information, please phone 07 306 0500 to speak with Emlyn Hatch (General Manager People & Partnerships) or Michelle Trudgen (Manager People and Capability).

Applications Close: 28 Feb 2025

Share on