Permissions Team Lead

• Develop and support our Permissions Team to achieve priority work
• Lead the changes to shape the exciting future of Permissions
• Permanent, full-time role based in Hamilton

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.

Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.

Mō te tūranga | About the role

We have an exciting permanent opportunity for a Team Lead to join the Hamilton Permissions Team. You’ll be at the centre of complex decision-making, working with legislation, policy, and processes that have a real impact on conservation outcomes.

This is a fast-paced role in a high-scrutiny environment, leading a motivated team of 7-8 people through changing priorities and complex workloads. You’ll need to be confident managing issues under pressure while fostering collaboration and maintaining team cohesion.

We're looking for a people-focused leader who values team performance, keen to provide their team the time and support needed to manage their work, and understand how they fit into the bigger picture of the permissions and regulatory work.

In this dynamic, highly connected role, you’ll work across DOC and the wider government context, and ensure our work reflects statutory requirements and strategic priorities. It’s an opportunity to think big, bring clarity to technical issues, and help shape the future of Permissions.

This is an exceptionally busy time for us as we implement new technology, and work towards achieving our goals; so we're looking for an experienced, flexible and resilient leader to jump in and hit the ground running!

Click here for the Role Description

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

You’ll have a solid understanding of Permissions and related legislation and be confident navigating multiple systems and processes. Political awareness, strategic thinking, and clear communication are essential, along with proven leadership—setting expectations, coaching, and supporting your team.

We’re looking for someone who performs under pressure, acts with integrity, and maintains perspective when challenges arise. A commitment to Treaty partnership and confidence engaging with iwi and tangata whenua is key.

If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you:

• Proven people leadership experience
• Highly motivated to develop and support staff – In addition to mentoring and coaching, you know how to create systems to help others manage high workloads and meet deliverables within set timeframes in a high-pressure environment.
• Driving and managing change and performance – You've got experience of managing through change and leading a high performing team.
• Bridge the gap – You're experienced in communicating the technical detail and strategy to a range of stakeholders.
• Solid regulatory background - Experience providing high quality advice within a complex technical environment.
• People orientated – Excellent interpersonal, communication, engagement, and relationship management skills – This is your forte!

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?

DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow.  We’re working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default.  You can learn more about what we offer here.

We support flexible work arrangements for our kaimahi who are working in a wide variety of roles and locations across Aotearoa. Flexible options will be considered based on your role and in discussion with your leader.

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now

Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted.

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

The salary range for this position is $92,912 to $117,570 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory – this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday, 26 January 2026

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Stef Bowman, Permissions Regulatory Delivery Manager, at sbowman@doc.govt.nz