Metadata Lead

Date: 14 Sept 2026

Location: Central Auckland, NZ, 1010

Company: Auckland Council

  • Lead the future direction of metadata across Auckland Libraries.
  • Champion innovation and continuous improvement in discovery and access.
  • Flexible work & hybrid role between home & office

 

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

 

This is an exciting opportunity to provide strategic leadership for metadata across Auckland Libraries, setting the future direction for metadata strategy, governance, and practice to ensure our collections remain discoverable, accessible, culturally responsive, and future-ready.Working with leaders, specialists, and sector partners, you will influence how metadata supports customer discovery, innovation, and service excellence across the library network.

 

Through your proven expertise and strategic leadership, you will influence the future direction of metadata practice, ensuring Auckland Libraries remains at the forefront of innovation, interoperability, and emerging discovery technologies.

 

 

Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters

 

Metadata is fundamental to how customers discover and access our collections. As Metadata Lead, you will establish strategic direction, foster collaboration, build organisational capability, and champion innovative approaches that support continuous improvement and long-term sustainability.

 

Your leadership will ensure metadata is integrated into digital platforms, customer experiences, and emerging technologies, including AI and automation initiatives that improve efficiency and support scalable practices.

 

 

Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities

 

  • Lead and embed Auckland Libraries' metadata strategy and future direction.
  • Drive consistency through metadata standards, governance, and best practice.
  • Foster collaboration and capability across teams and stakeholders.
  • Champion innovation, continuous improvement, and emerging metadata practices.
  • Provide strategic advice and represent Auckland Libraries within the wider sector.

 

To view full position description: click here

 

 

He kōrero mōu: About you

 

You are a strategic thinker who can balance long-term vision with practical implementation. You have a passion for metadata, information discovery and emerging technologies, along with the ability to influence and bring people together across complex organisational environments.

 

You will bring:

  • Significant experience in metadata leadership, governance, or information management.
  • Demonstrated success in developing strategy, governance frameworks, standards, and organisational practice.
  • Proven ability to build capability, influence outcomes, and foster collaboration across multiple teams and stakeholder groups.
  • Knowledge of emerging metadata trends, including linked data, automation, and AI-enabled opportunities.
  • Strong stakeholder engagement and collaboration skills.
  • A commitment to culturally responsive practice and embedding Te Ao Māori perspectives.
  • Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and strategic advisory skills.

 



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 27 September

 

Salary: This role is salary band H we expect to appoint the successful candidate at a salary of between $112 – 124k depending upon skills & experience.

 

 

Auckland Council is committed to protecting your privacy in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020. We collect personal information directly from you and, where relevant for the purpose of assessing you for employment, and employing you as part of the transport reform process, from third parties such as referees, previous employers (including Auckland Transport) recruitment agencies, and background checking providers.

By applying for this role, you consent to Council obtaining a reference from your current employer, including information about any active conduct investigations and current performance management processes, if you are the preferred candidate. Reference checks will only be undertaken at the preferred candidate stage. Any non-active performance or conduct matters may also be discussed with referees as part of the reference checking process.

If you do not consent to this information being provided, Council may be unable to properly assess your application and your application will not progress further. If you wish to withhold your consent, or to access or correct your personal information, please contact the Privacy Officer at privacy@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

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.