Principal Funding & Cost Recovery Advisor

Principal Growth Funding & Cost Recovery Advisor

Posted: 09/01/2026

Closing Date: 31/01/2026

Job Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location:

Hastings

Job Category:
Growth & Development

Welcome to Heretaunga, the area renowned for its rich and fertile landscape that is sustained by its life-giving dews and waterways. Welcome to Heretaunga, whose beauty is observed by the sharp eye of the harrier hawk; a landscape rich in history and with an esteemed legacy of caring and providing for its inhabitants.

The Hastings District Council has recently reviewed how it approaches and manages its growth and development activities. This has culminated in the establishment of a new Growth and Development Unit, who lead growth and development work across Council. If you’d like to be part of a team of professionals that works in a collaborative, fun and supportive culture, on a work program that is diverse, dynamic and full of opportunities, we want to hear from you.

Hastings District Council is seeking a Principal Growth Funding and Cost Recovery Advisor to lead the development and coordination of our strategic approach to funding and recovering the costs of growth. This is a leadership role that works across the organisation to ensure our funding frameworks are robust, future-focused, and aligned with key planning documents including the Future Development Strategy, Long Term Plan, and Asset Management Plans.

This is a future-focused role in a sector undergoing significant reform—including the Three Waters reset and broader government sector reform processes. As Council navigates these shifts, this position will evolve to meet emerging priorities and strategic direction. If you're adaptable, forward-thinking, and ready to shape funding frameworks in a dynamic environment, we want to hear from you.

This is a permanent role, reflecting Council’s commitment to dedicated expertise in this space, especially as we navigate sector-wide reform and change.

Ōu wheako – about you
To be successful in this role you will have:

• Relevant qualifications in finance, planning, asset management, or urban development—ideally with public sector experience.
• Strong financial and analytical skills, including cost modelling, budgeting, and revenue recovery.
• Solid understanding of local government policy and infrastructure funding frameworks.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to align funding decisions with long-term growth goals.
• Excellent communication skills—able to explain complex concepts clearly and build trust with stakeholders.
• Proven ability to collaborate across teams, influence outcomes, and drive continuous improvement.
• Be comfortable working in a dynamic environment, with resilience and adaptability to change.

You’ll bring strong financial acumen, policy expertise, and a collaborative mindset to drive cross-departmental integration, support development agreements, and represent Council in regional and national forums. While not responsible for operational DC assessments, you’ll need a solid working understanding of the funding model and its practical application.

This role is part of the Growth and Development Unit.

Situated in the heart of Ngāti Kahungunu, the Hastings district and Hawke’s Bay offer an enjoyable environment in which to live, work and play. We are an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity. Are you keen to be a part of our journey?

Applications close:
Sunday 1 February 2026

to find out about all the great reasons why you'll want to work for us.

Please Note: Due to the highly competitive employment market, our vacancy close date may be subject to change if a suitable candidate is found, so don't delay in making your application.