Senior Democracy Advisor
Wellington City Council
Kia mahi ngātahi mō Pōneke mō tōna āpōpō - Working together for Wellington's future
Are you an experienced governance professional who thrives at the intersection of policy, politics, and public service? Do you bring sound judgement, political acumen and a commitment to transparent, effective decision‑making? If so, we’d love you to join us.
This is a fixed-term opportunity until March 2027.
Governance and Information is Wellington City Council’s centre of expertise for governance, democratic services and transparent decision-making. We support the Council, committees, community boards and the wider organisation to deliver high‑quality democratic processes that our city can rely on.
Āu ake mahi - What you'll do
We’re looking for a senior governance professional to support the effective operation of Council, committee and community board meetings, and to provide high‑quality, impartial advice to elected members and senior leaders.
In this role, you’ll work across the organisation to lead the planning, preparation and delivery of agendas, minutes, work programmes and associated meeting documentation, ensuring processes are accurate, well‑run and fully aligned with legislative and best‑practice requirements and team processes. You’ll keep decision‑makers well informed, prepare them for upcoming business, and provide clear guidance on Standing Orders, meeting procedures, code of conduct and conflict‑of‑interest matters.
As a senior member of the team, you’ll help embed consistent governance practice, mentor Democracy Advisors, and contribute to the continuous improvement of our governance systems. This role sits at the heart of Council’s democratic framework and requires someone who can think strategically about governance risks and systems, while bringing the discipline, accuracy and political neutrality essential to robust decision‑making.
Ngā tohu me ngā wheako - Qualifications and experience
You’ll bring a relevant qualification (or equivalent experience), at least five years’ experience in governance, legal or policy roles, and a strong understanding of local government. You’ll be an excellent communicator with strong analytical skills, political acumen, and the ability to process complex information with accuracy and clarity. You’ll be self‑motivated, relationship‑focused, and confident working with senior decision‑makers. You value process integrity and enjoy working in a role where quality and accuracy matter.
We may also consider appointing a Democracy Advisor for the right candidate who can demonstrate strong core skills we are seeking.
Nōu te rourou - What's in it for you
Working for the Council offers you a range of benefits including 5 weeks annual leave, flexible working options, health and wellbeing support, Council staff discounts and a range of learning and development programmes and opportunities.
View our Employee Value Proposition Video to see what our employees say about working at WCC.
Diversity:
We want your application to enable you to portray the real you. Skills are gained across many areas of our life, not just formal employment. If you can demonstrate the skills listed in the advert through whānau life, community or mahi aroha (volunteering) we encourage you to apply and share your story with us in your cover letter.
We welcome applications from all people and like our workforce to reflect the diverse communities we serve.
Accessibility Support:
We want to make sure any accessibility requirements you may have, are well supported so the selection process is equitable for everyone. Please let us know if there are any adjustments or support, we can offer to make our process more accessible to you by emailing: recruitment@wcc.govt.nz
Applications close on Tuesday, 17 March 2026. Please note that we may engage with applicants prior to the vacancy closing and/or close applications ahead of this date so we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
All applications must be submitted online and must have the right to work in New Zealand - we will not accept emailed applications.
Pre-employment Checks: All employees must undergo a Criminal Conviction Check.
If you have questions, please contact Carolyn Bullen, Senior Talent Acquisition Partner carolyn.bullen2@wcc.govt.nz
