Principal Consents Officer
Southland-based | Strategic + Technical Leadership Role | Drive Environmental Outcomes

Set against the stunning backdrop of Southland, this forward-thinking regional organisation plays a vital role in protecting and enhancing the natural environment. With a strong reputation for technical excellence, innovation, and collaboration, the team is passionate about delivering resource management outcomes that make a lasting impact.

This Principal-level opportunity sits within a highly respected regulatory team and offers a chance to lead, mentor, and shape best practice consenting processes that align with evolving environmental goals.

What’s in it for you

• Work at a strategic level with influence across policy, planning, and community outcomes
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives within a supportive and values-driven organisation
• Take a key role in mentoring and developing a high-performing team of consent planners
• Enjoy flexibility with hybrid working options and compressed work weeks where possible
• Access to relocation support, 6 weeks’ annual leave, and ongoing professional development
• Be part of a region with a strong sense of community, affordable housing, and exceptional natural beauty
  
  

Non-Negotiables

• Tertiary qualification in resource management, environmental science, law, or a related field
• Extensive experience in the resource management or regulatory sector, ideally within local government
• Strong working knowledge of the Resource Management Act and related policy frameworks
• Proven ability to lead technical processes, assess complex consents, and coach junior staff
• Excellent communication skills and a pragmatic, relationship-led approach
• Full, clean driver’s licence
  
  

Desirables

• Experience managing consultants and budgets
• Knowledge of the wider regulatory environment (e.g. NES, NPS, freshwater and coastal plans)
• Familiarity working with iwi and understanding of tikanga M?ori
• Previous involvement in policy development or strategic planning
  
  

Next Steps If you’re looking for a leadership role that blends environmental impact with technical challenge please submit your application and we'll be in contact. 

84 Recruitment is the exclusive recruting agency working on this vacancy. For confidential enquiries, please contact Ben Lapworth 022 183 4944 | ben@84recruitment.co.nz