Permissions Team Lead | Kaiārahi Rōpu Whakaaetanga

• 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; other locations considered 

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

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! 

This is a permanent, full-time role based in Hamilton, however we will consider other locations for the right candidate. 

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 is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default.

We also support flexible working arrangements for our kaimahi across Aotearoa, with options considered based on the role and in discussion with your leader. 

Want to know more? 

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now 

Apply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation. We’re unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants not shortlisted.

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate. 

Salary: $93,656 –$118,510, depending on skills and experience. 

Eligibility: You must hold a valid New Zealand work visa that covers the duration of employment. 

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday, 8 July 2026 

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Rebecca Beaumont at [email protected]