Central City Transformation Manager

This role sits within the Strategy, Growth and Planning Group who ensure we have long-term guardianship of strategic planning and development. They make decisions in the best interests of our city and our region (with a boundaryless view) and create inter-generational and environmental sustainability. They enable business investment that creates employment opportunities, economic prosperity and sustainable growth.

Our job is looking ahead for the future of our city.

He angituutanga: The opportunity 

• Shape the Future of Hamilton’s Central City
• Be part of something transformational.
• This is your opportunity to play a key role in shaping Hamilton’s future and leaving a lasting legacy in our central city.

As part of Hamilton City Council’s Strategy, Growth and Planning group, this is a rare opportunity to influence the future of our central city. You’ll be at the centre of high-profile, city-shaping initiatives working alongside Councillors, developers, businesses, iwi and the community to bring a shared vision to life.

This role goes beyond delivery. It’s about setting direction, aligning people and investment, and creating a vibrant central city we can all be proud of now and for generations to come.

What does a day look like?

No two days are the same in this high-impact role.

As our Central City Transformation Manager, you’ll lead the delivery of Hamilton’s Central City Transformation Plan connecting strategy with action to create real momentum and visible outcomes.

You’ll be the key connector across Council and our partners bringing people together, removing barriers, and keeping progress moving. While you won’t have a direct team, you’ll lead through influence, relationships, and a shared sense of purpose.

Your day could include:

• Championing the long-term vision and driving programme delivery
• Bringing stakeholders together to resolve challenges and unlock opportunities
• Aligning priorities and investment across Council and partner organisations
• Leading communication and engagement to build trust through change
• Providing insights, reporting and strategic advice to support decision-making
• Partnering with organisations such as the Hamilton Central Business Association to achieve shared outcomes

You’ll operate at the intersection of strategy and delivery translating big ideas into real-world impact.

We’re seeking a strategic and influential leader who thrives in complexity and knows how to bring people along on the journey.

Oo puumanawa me oo wheako | Your skills and experience

• Senior-level experience (approximately 5–10 years) in programme delivery, urban development or complex transformation
• Proven success leading major programmes or projects, including budget management
• Strong experience working in stakeholder-led environments
• Solid programme management capability (e.g. MSP or similar)
• Knowledge of local government and development processes (desirable)
• Exceptional relationship management and influencing skills
• Ability to connect big-picture vision with practical delivery
• Strong problem-solving skills, confident navigating ambiguity
• Commercial and strategic awareness, with a focus on value outcomes
• Excellent communication skills across a wide range of audiences
• Proactive and self-driven
• Open, curious and collaborative
• Resilient, adaptable and comfortable with change

He aha te wariu o te utu kaimahi? | What’s the salary? 

Circa $130K dependent on skills and experience.

Ngaa waahi whakarato painga kei a maatou: What we offer 

• Flexible by choice; an award-winning flexible working policy.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Two Wellbeing days per year.
• Free health insurance through Unimed including hospital/surgery grade cover and discounted. membership rates for family members.
• Free annual health checks and flu vaccination.
• Ability to purchase additional annual leave.
• Eye testing/glasses cost reimbursement.
• Discounted purchases from local businesses; gym memberships, cafes, dentists, hairdressers and many more.

Me Tono Inaaianei!: Apply Now! 

• View the position description.
• Click apply
• ​Complete your application.

If you wish to include a cover letter with your application, please combine this in the same file as your resume and upload as a PDF file. Alternatively, you can use the 'Write a message to the Hiring Team' text box.

Applications close on the: 12/07/2026

Note: We will be shortlisting as we receive applications.

Council is committed to honouring the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi through its relationship with Kiingitanga, Waikato Tainui, mana whenua and maataa waka within Hamilton Kirikiriroa.

All candidates will be notified of the outcome on their application via email. Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks and a criminal check. Further background checking will be required when relevant to the role. View more information about these checks, our commitment to the Privacy act and details for international applicants by clicking here

It is important to us that we support you throughout our selection process (interview and assessments). If you have any access needs during this process, let us know in advance so we can make sure these are met.

As a council, we believe in creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and belongs. We value inclusiveness (Kotahitanga) – we respect and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that everyone brings.

This role is being sourced directly. If/where Hamilton City Council requires the support of a recruitment agency, we will seek this support from our panel of selected agencies. Hamilton City Council will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any commissions, fees or other payments related to unsolicited contact.