Principal Advisor Social Innovation

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

The Principal Advisor – Social Innovation is a rare opportunity to lead bold, system-shifting change for West Auckland. This role sits within Council’s Social Innovation portfolio, working across The Southern Initiative (TSI) and The Western Initiative (TWI) to drive economic development opportunities that deliver genuine, lasting impact for communities. It’s about challenging the status quo, addressing market and policy failures, and proving that a fairer, more sustainable economy—one that benefits people and the planet—is both possible and achievable.

A significant focus will be on two key projects: collaborating with other initiatives across TSI and TWI to design and deliver innovative, community-led economic development opportunities, and advancing procurement strategy and delivery with a sharp lens on community outcomes and political acumen. This is a senior, outward-facing role that combines strategic influence with on-the-ground delivery, building partnerships that inspire change, shift policy, and improve prosperity for tamariki, whānau, and future generations in West Auckland.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead innovative, inclusive, and circular economic development projects across TSI and TWI that drive systemic change.
• Shape and deliver procurement strategies that maximise community benefits while navigating complex political environments.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships across public, private, and community sectors to amplify robust solutions.
• Influence policy, strategy, and practice to embed socio-economic transformation in West Auckland.
• Capture and share learnings through the ‘live learning’ model to drive continuous improvement and inform future strategy.

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He kōrero mōu: About you

We’re looking for a seasoned Advisor who can bring strategic vision, innovation, and resilience to this senior role. We are a newly formed department and as such this role requires someone who can work independently to create and lead initiatives, while also being a collaborative team player. Experience as a social entrepreneur or practitioner of community-led approaches, both locally and internationally, will be highly regarded, as will strong connections within West Auckland.

Adaptability, political acumen, and the ability to contribute confidently to learning circles and communities of practice practitioner are key to success. This is an opportunity to influence and deliver innovative solutions that will drive positive social change at scale.

Key Qualifications & Skills:

• Tertiary qualification in social or economic development, with extensive experience in multi-sector project and programme delivery.
• Proven procurement expertise and ability to navigate large, complex organisational environments.
• Background in social entrepreneurship or community-led approaches, with strong local and international networks.
• Strategic thinking, adaptability, and confidence engaging with senior stakeholders, learning circles, and communities of practice.

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.

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

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

Applications close: 1st September 2025, midnight

This role is Band I

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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.
 
Employees in receipt of salary protection and/or on the predecessor Council terms and conditions of employment, please note that the salary protection and/or predecessor Council terms and conditions, including relocation, apply to your current position. Should you change to a new position (other than any secondment) you will be issued with a new employment letter of offer with current Auckland Council terms and conditions.