Are you ready to shape the future of transport and coastal infrastructure in one of New Zealand’s most vibrant cities?
Napier City Council is at an exciting turning point, with an organisational redesign driving smarter, more connected services for our community. As we evolve, we’re seeking a strategic, forward-thinking Portfolio Lead Transport to oversee our transport and inner harbour project portfolio. This is a pivotal role that blends strategic oversight, stakeholder collaboration, and delivery excellence—ensuring our infrastructure investments drive long-term value for Napier.
This position will be part of the Strategy & Urban Development Directorate (Urban), which leads future planning, policy development, and compliance to promote sustainable growth and enhance community well-being. The directorate supports businesses and developers through regulatory service excellence. It oversees projects to ensure efficient resource utilisation and the delivery of tangible community benefits.
Te Āheinga - The Opportunity
- Strategic coordination of transport and harbour initiatives across roads, active transport, coastal infrastructure, and inner harbour assets
- Ensuring alignment with Council’s sustainability, financial, and service delivery goals for our community and ratepayers
- Portfolio-level risk, budget, and milestone management - oversight that enables smarter decision-making, better resource allocation, and stronger alignment with strategic priorities.
- Collaboration with internal teams, mana whenua, Waka Kotahi, Maritime NZ, and other key partners
He kōrero mōhou - About You
- Relevant tertiary qualification (or equivalent experience) in transport, infrastructure, or project delivery, providing a strong technical foundation.
- Proven leadership delivering large-scale capital projects and portfolios, with expertise in procurement, contracts, budgets, risk management, and governance to ensure value for investment.
- In-depth understanding of transport systems, coastal and marine infrastructure, and harbour operations, balancing strategic insight with practical, hands-on delivery.
- Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills, building trust and aligning diverse perspectives — from internal teams and iwi/mana whenua to national transport agencies — to achieve successful outcomes.
Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer
- 5 weeks annual leave after 2 years service
- Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme + Eye Test Subsidy
- Retailer Discounts + Study assistance
- Employee Assistance Program (OCP)
- Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club
- Free flu vaccinations (annual)
- Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka
- Te Reo Māori language classes
This is a permanent, full time opportunity working 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday. You will be based in Napier's CBD.
The annual salary package for this role is between $112,900-$132,800 (including KiwiSaver), with the final offer depending on your skills and experience.
We’re reviewing applications as they come in and may close the role early once, we’ve found the right fit.
He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC
At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!
Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.
Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including drug testing, with some roles requiring health screening). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.
Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description
Job Description – Portfolio Lead Transport
