Foundation governance leadership opportunity
Coast Waters is being established by the Buller, Grey and Westland District Councils as the Water Services CCO responsible for delivering drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services across the West Coast.
Bringing together three councils’ water services into a single organisation, Coast Waters is designed to meet evolving regulatory requirements, ensure long-term affordability, and deliver safe, reliable services for West Coast communities now and in the future.
We are seeking three independent Directors, one of whom will be appointed Chair, to form the inaugural Board and guide the organisation through its formation and early years. You will play a critical role in setting strategic direction, establishing robust governance and performance frameworks, managing risk, and building strong relationships with councils, iwi, regulators and communities.
Appointments are likely to be confirmed mid-2026 and will be for a three year term. Additional Directors will be appointed by the shareholding councils.
We are seeking experienced governance leaders who collectively offer strengths across:
- Infrastructure and asset governance in capital-intensive environments
- Commercial and financial acumen, including long-term planning and risk oversight
- Water services or experience in similarly regulated, safety-critical sectors
- Climate, resilience, environmental and regulatory insight
- Māori / iwi engagement and practical understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi
- Public sector, community and stakeholder engagement.
An understanding of the West Coast and its service delivery challenges is desirable.
Applications close on 26th April. Candidates can view the Candidate Briefing document and apply, in strict confidence, online at www.sheffield.co.nz
To apply by email, please attach your cover letter and current CV and send to cvchc@sheffield.co.nz quoting 9178aa. Emails will be electronically acknowledged, and further correspondence may be by email.
For enquiries please contact Andrea Bankier (+64 27 447 8102) or Jane Pollitt (+64 3 353 4354).