Introduction

Mo tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role

Reporting to the Emergency Services Manager, you will lead Marlborough Emergency Management’s Community Resilience and fulfil the role of Group Welfare Manager. You will shape regional welfare and resilience arrangements, turn strategy into practical programmes, and build trusted partnerships with Te Tauihu iwi, government agencies, welfare providers and communities. During an emergency, you will take a senior role in the Emergency Coordination Centre (normally as Welfare Function Manager or Response Manager) helping ensure affected people and communities receive well-coordinated support.

In this role, you will:

• Lead and develop the Community Resilience team, setting clear priorities and building capability.
• Lead Marlborough’s welfare planning, systems, partnerships and operational arrangements across reduction, readiness, response and recovery.
• Drive delivery of the Community Resilience Strategy, including locally led preparedness initiatives and work with communities likely to be disproportionately affected by emergencies.
• Chair the Welfare Coordination Group and maintain effective relationships with Te Tauihu iwi, government agencies, welfare providers, rural networks and community organisations.
• Integrate welfare and community resilience into wider emergency planning, exercises and operational arrangements.
• Provide trusted advice to managers, governance, Controllers and Recovery Managers, and take a senior leadership role during emergency activations.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

We’re committed to building an inclusive, respectful workplace where diversity is celebrated and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We welcome people from all backgrounds and support equitable opportunities, open-minded collaboration, and the growth of cultural understanding. To enable our people to succeed and make an impact, we offer:

• Life and income protection insurance, health insurance, enhanced leave and superannuation (conditions apply); and relocation support where applicable
• A Salary range of $112,000 to $124,000 per annum FTE (this will depend on the knowledge, skills and experience you have to offer)
• Strong health, safety and wellbeing focussed culture
• EAP support, wellness initiatives and access to Marlborough Chamber of Commerce retail discounts
• Meaningful work that supports our people and community.

Ko ngā wheako ōu | About you

You will bring:

• Proven leadership experience, including developing high-performing teams, and stakeholder relationships
• At least five years' experience in emergency management, welfare coordination, community development or a similar environment
• Strong knowledge of welfare services, community resilience, emergency management frameworks, strategy delivery and relevant legislation
• Experience working collaboratively with iwi, community groups and partner agencies
• A tertiary qualification in emergency management, community development, social sciences or a related field
• The ability to remain calm, decisive and resilient in high-pressure situations

Ko wai mātou | About us

Marlborough District Council is a dynamic, progressive organisation which prides itself on the professionalism it brings to managing a wide range of functions. Our vision is that over the next decade, Marlborough will become a globally connected district of progressive, high-value enterprise, known for its quality lifestyle, desirable location and natural environment. Marlborough is unique for many reasons. The region offers an array of outdoor pursuits in a distinctive and picturesque landscape. With the Marlborough Sounds, the land and sea offer unlimited accessibility for sport and leisure.

If you’re ready to make an impact in your community with Council - Tono mai | Apply now! Applications close 5.00 pm on Friday, 9 October 2026.

For any additional information please reach out to Matt Kerr (Emergency Services Manager) at matt.kerr@marlborough.govt.nz

We’re committed to ensuring our team goes home safe every day. Preferred candidates will be required to complete pre-employment checks to the employer’s satisfaction. These checks may include, but are not limited to, a criminal history check, confirmation of the right to work in New Zealand, drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive roles and psychometric testing.