Grant Portfolio Lead

• Work between home & office, flexible start & finish time
• Join a team of 6 dedicated specialists
• Shape the future of sport, recreation and wellbeing across Auckland

He angitūtanga: The opportunity 

As Grant Portfolio Lead, you will provide leadership, specialist expertise and end-to-end delivery of Auckland Council’s regional Sport and Recreation grants portfolio. This permanent role is responsible for ensuring funding is aligned to strategic priorities and delivers meaningful outcomes for communities. 

You will lead the coordination, delivery and continuous improvement of key funds, and will work closely with Sport and Recreation Leads, admin support, finance, governance advisors and elected members to ensure a robust, transparent and effective grants programme. 

Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters 

• Enables community wellbeing outcomes by directing regional investment into sport and recreation facilities and programmes that increase participation, inclusion and active lifestyles across Tāmaki Makaurau. 

• Ensures public funding delivers impact and value through robust, transparent grant processes that align with council priorities and support sustainable community infrastructure. 

• Supports equitable investment decisions by applying data, insights and strategic thinking to prioritise projects that meet current and future needs. 

• Drives continuous improvement in grants delivery by developing systems, processes and tools that enhance efficiency, accountability and user experience.

Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities 

You will: 

• Lead the planning and delivery of funding rounds, including assessment, moderation and reporting 

• Provide high-quality advice and recommendations to elected members and decision-makers 

• Develop and maintain robust systems, tools and processes to strengthen portfolio performance 

• Coordinate post-allocation activities, including contracting, monitoring and reporting 

To view full position description:  click here  

 
He kōrero mōu: About you 

You will bring a strong mix of relationship management, systems thinking and delivery expertise. You are confident working in a political environment and thrive on improving processes to deliver better outcomes. 

 
We’re looking for someone who brings: 

• Proven experience in grants management, contract management or programme coordination 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present clear, concise advice 

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple workstreams 

• Analytical and conceptual thinking skills, with a continuous improvement mindset 

• Confidence using systems and tools, including advanced Microsoft Excel and other business applications 

• An understanding of local government processes and political decision-making (desirable) 

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every requirement listed. What matters most is your ability to contribute to a collaborative, purpose-driven environment where diverse experiences are valued. We know that transferable skills can come from experience gained from outside of work. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer  

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.  

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.   
Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of. 

Additionally, as part of our Auckland Council Group, you will gain access to many benefits and discounts including: 

• Option to buy an additional week’s annual leave 

• Four weeks annual leave, plus an additional week after five years 

• Additional day of leave for community activities 

• Discounts on attractions such as the Maritime Museum, Auckland Zoo & Auckland Art Gallery 

• Discounted Health & Life Insurance Policies 

• Flexible and supportive work environment 

• 3.5% KiwiSaver on top of your salary 

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits 

Tono Mai: Apply Now! 

Application close date: Sunday 12th July 2026 at 11.59pm

Salary: Band G, $100-$114k per annum depending on skills & experience

 
Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.