AI Adoption & Automation Lead

Shape the future of work at Hutt City Council. Work across Council to influence change. Innovative and interesting work. Artificial Intelligence is changing the way organisations work, and we're looking for someone to help lead that journey on a fixed term basis (12 months). As our AI Adoption & Automation Lead, you'll play a pivotal role in helping Hutt City Council safely and responsibly embed AI and intelligent automation into the way we work. You'll work across the organisation to identify opportunities, build capability, establish governance, and help our people confidently adopt new technologies that improve customer service, productivity and decision-making. This is an opportunity to influence how AI supports the delivery of public services while ensuring innovation is balanced with strong governance, responsible use and community trust. About The Role Reporting to the Director of Transformation, you'll work with leaders and teams across Council to build an AI-enabled organisation that delivers better outcomes for our community. You'll Be Responsible For Leading the adoption of AI and intelligent automation across Council. Developing and embedding Council's AI Governance Framework and maintaining oversight of AI solutions and automation initiatives. Identifying and prioritising high‑value AI opportunities that improve services and organisational performance. Building AI capability through training, coaching and practical guidance. Establishing AI Champions and communities of practice to support adoption. Monitoring benefits realisation, AI usage, costs and return on investment. Keeping Council informed of emerging AI technologies and recommending future opportunities aligned with Council priorities. Working collaboratively with business leaders, Information Services, Information Management, Privacy, Security and external partners to ensure AI initiatives deliver measurable value. The AI Adoption & Automation Lead is the Council's steward for Artificial Intelligence and Automation, ensuring these capabilities are introduced responsibly, governed effectively, adopted confidently and delivers measurable value for our communities and our people. About You You're someone who enjoys turning emerging technology into practical business outcomes. You'll Bring Experience leading digital transformation, organisational change or business improvement initiatives. A strong understanding of Artificial Intelligence and intelligent automation in a business environment. Experience developing governance, risk or assurance frameworks. The ability to identify opportunities, build business cases and demonstrate business value. Outstanding communication, facilitation and stakeholder engagement skills. The ability to explain complex technical concepts in simple, practical language. A collaborative, curious and customer-focused mindset with a passion for enabling positive change. Experience in local government, Microsoft Copilot or Power Platform, benefits realisation or portfolio management would be an advantage. About Us At Hutt City Council our vision is to build a connected, resilient and inclusive city where all of our people thrive - Kia noho mai tēnei tāone hei pou herenga waka, hei pou herenga kaupapa, hei wāhi whai hua ki hōna iwi. Our council has set out a bold and ambitious plan for us to achieve. We work hard to deliver the best outcomes for our communities, are flexible in our approach, and we’re committed to creating an inclusive and progressive work environment for our staff. We’re committed to providing a working environment that embraces, values and reflects the diversity of the community we serve. We recognise rewarding you is not only about your pay, so we’ve outlined some of the great benefits that may be available to you. Read more about them here: careers.huttcity.govt.nz/your-total-rewards Applications close Sunday 23 August 2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr