Principal Citizen & Customer Engagement Specialist

Overview The role of the engagement unit is to bring the diverse voices of Aucklanders into decision making. Help Aucklanders provide the opportunity to influence the decisions that shape Tāmaki Makaurau. Lead high profile engagement programmes across Auckland Council Partner with senior leaders, elected members and diverse communities Help build trust through meaningful public participation Exciting secondment opportunity until the end of 2026 Responsibilities Design, advise and deliver high quality engagement and consultation programmes across a diverse portfolio of work Provide trusted strategic advice to senior leaders, elected members and project teams on engagement design and delivery Lead the Auckland Conversations Programme and other high profile engagement initiatives Lead and support major regional consultations, such as Long-Term Plan in line with Auckland Council's Significance and Engagement Policy Champion best practice engagement and promote Auckland Council's unique governance model Build strong partnerships with communities, and internal and external stakeholders Lead continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen engagement capability and delivery across Council Qualifications Extensive experience in stakeholder or community engagement Strong political awareness and an understanding of local or central government Outstanding communication, facilitation and relationship management skills The confidence to influence senior stakeholders and provide strategic advice Working Environment and Benefits You will be part of a dynamic, high achieving and supportive team where your mahi will directly impact the lives of over 1.8 million Aucklanders. Based in Albert Street, and part of the wider Engagement Unit, our anchor days in the office are Tuesdays and Wednesdays and you have the opportunity to work from home if you wish on the other days. We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. View a snapshot of some of our employee benefits HERE Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process. #J-18808-Ljbffr