Kaihautu Relationships and Engagement

Lead Treaty relationships that shape the future of conservation in Aotearoa $153,600 - $220,800, depending on skills and experience. Permanent role, Wellington location. Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa Mō te tūranga About the role We have a new DOC Treaty Operating Model that will strengthen how we work with Treaty partners and bring greater clarity to expectations, roles, and accountability across the organisation. This makes it an exciting time to join our Iwi Strategy and Partnerships Group. We are looking for an experienced and visionary leader to join DOC as Kaihautū – Relationships & Engagement (Tier 3). This is a critical enterprise role responsible for ensuring DOC operates as an honourable Treaty partner through strong, strategic, and culturally grounded relationships. Reporting to the Deputy Director‑General, Iwi Strategy and Partnerships, you will lead the system that underpins Treaty partnership shaping how DOC engages with whānau, hapū, iwi, and Māori organisations, and ensuring engagement is coordinated, effective, and mana enhancing. You will provide enterprise‑wide leadership of DOC’s relationships and engagement function, aligned with the Treaty Operating Model and delivering meaningful impact for Treaty partners. Responsibilities Set direction, standards, and expectations for Treaty relationship and engagement practice. Lead a coordinated, strategic approach to iwi partnerships, agreements, and commitments. Lead key relationships with iwi and hapū as delegated by the Director Deputy General. Develop and embed tools, frameworks, and guidance for high‑quality engagement. Build and support a network of Kaihautū, Pou, and Treaty Rangers. Uplift team, group and organisational capability through coaching, support, and communities of practice. Establish tikanga‑based engagement processes, including risk management and escalation pathways. Oversee continuous improvement of engagement outcomes. Align engagement across DOC to reduce duplication and strengthen impact. Partner with senior leaders to integrate engagement into strategy, policy, and operations. Model culturally safe, mana‑enhancing leadership grounded in tikanga Māori. Foster a collaborative, future‑focused, values‑led culture. Skills and experience Deep expertise in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the Crown–Māori relationship. Strong understanding of kaupapa Māori frameworks, te ao Māori. Strong understanding and experience working with CEs and senior leaders and Ministers. Significant experience and knowledge of the machinery of government. Proven experience leading enterprise‑level relationships and engagement functions with trust and confidence. In‑depth knowledge of Treaty settlements and their operational and policy implications. Demonstrated success building and sustaining trusted relationships with Treaty partners – and representing government in fora. Strong capability in system leadership, influencing, and cross‑agency collaboration. Experience leading large, complex programmes and high‑performing leadership teams. You will also be a values‑driven leader who demonstrates integrity, sound judgement, and the ability to navigate complexity with empathy, clarity, and purpose. 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 offer a competitive salary range and opportunities for advancement, professional growth, and meaningful contributions to conservation. Eligibility You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr