People & Capability Lead

Opportunity Overview

This permanent role is centered on strategic partnership and leadership support, focusing on enhancing organisational capability. It blends strategic insight with practical implementation and is based in Petone with flexible work options.

The salary midpoint for this position is $137,763 NZD including KiwiSaver, with starting pay determined by the candidate's expertise and background.

Role Summary

Tiaki Wai seeks a seasoned People & Capability Lead to collaborate with organisational leaders, delivering strategic and operational HR solutions that boost performance and help meet business goals. Reporting to the Head of People & Capability, the role involves trusted advisory work with senior leadership and employees to manage complex workforce issues, build leadership skills, and implement initiatives that enhance both organisational effectiveness and employee experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop strong partnerships with leaders to offer strategic and operational people advice aligned with business priorities.
• Support and coach leaders through aspects of the employee lifecycle such as performance management, conduct, wellbeing, workforce planning, conflict resolution, and organisational change.
• Lead and counsel on complex employment relations topics, including investigations, managing performance, restructures, personal grievances, and collective employment matters.
• Collaborate with leaders to identify workforce needs, address capability shortfalls, succession planning, and strategic workforce planning.
• Assist in planning and executing organisational change efforts to achieve positive results for employees and the organisation.
• Lead or participate in organisation-wide People & Capability programs such as workforce planning, policy development, remuneration, employee engagement, performance reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor employment-related risks and ensure adherence to employment laws, organisational policies, and best practices.
• Establish and maintain constructive relationships with unions and other key stakeholders to foster positive organisational and employee outcomes.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate combines strategic thinking with practical delivery, quickly establishes credibility, and enjoys partnering with leaders to effectively manage complex challenges and achieve positive business outcomes.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum of 5 years experience as a Senior HR Partner or Lead with expertise in diverse People & Capability disciplines.
• Deep understanding of New Zealand employment legislation and employment relations.
• Proven experience in organisational design, workforce planning, and leading change projects.
• Strong coaching and leadership influencing skills at all organisational tiers.
• Excellent abilities in stakeholder engagement, facilitation, communication, and relationship management.
• Capability to analyze workforce data and translate findings into actionable interventions.
• Commitment to continuous enhancement and delivering effective outcomes for people and organisation.
• Foundational knowledge of Te Ao Māori and Te Tiriti ō Waitangi principles is desirable.
• Tertiary qualification in Human Resources or related disciplines, or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits and Work Environment

• Flexible working, including up to two days remote work each week.
• Robust wellbeing programs with an additional paid wellbeing day annually.
• Opportunities for both formal and informal professional development.
• Five weeks’ annual leave after two years of continuous service.
• Prospects to maintain professional chartered HR memberships.

About Tiaki Wai

Tiaki Wai is a council-owned entity managing vital water services for the Hutt Valley, Porirua, and Wellington regions. The organisation operates extensive public water infrastructure and prioritizes safe, reliable services, environmental stewardship, and sustainable regional growth.

Guided by values of Integrity, Care, and Leadership, Tiaki Wai partners with communities, councils, and mana whenua to promote superior water management for present and future generations.

Additional Information

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in New Zealand long-term or able to obtain a valid work visa. The application deadline is Sunday, 23rd August 2026.