Business and lead

* Key relationship role with the Kapiti business community * Support the growth of Kapiti's emerging sectors and industries * Be part of a dynamic team Te turanga | The Opportunity The Business and Industry Lead is a permanent role within the Business Innovation team which is part of Council's Strategy and Growth group. Reporting directly to the Business Innovation Manager, the Business and Industry Lead is a key relationship role working with business to ensure that our regulatory environment is well understood and that there is proactive communication with the business community. This role also supports the growth in capability and capacity of Kapiti's emerging sectors and industries and includes the facilitation of industry clusters, business associations and networks with an aim to establish local centres of innovation / excellence and ensure a business-led approach. This is an externally focused role which is highly active in the local business community and will often be a first port of call for a wide variety of businesses and stakeholders. As part of the role, you will undertake the following: * Support the effective operation of the local regulatory system by providing insights and opportunities for business innovation * Design, implement and lead industry cluster development to support clusters to grow and progressively self-leading. * Develop and maintain effective working relationships with local businesses, clusters, associations and networks * Lead on industry and sector events and training to support business innovation and productivity * Provide regular updates to key stakeholders and partners. Na tou rourou | What you will bring To be successful in the role, you will need to have: * Experience in multi-faceted or complex business environments with multiple customer and stakeholder expectations. * Proven commercial, economic development and analytical skills, and the ability to provide well-considered, robust advice. * Proven relationship management experience, with a strong commitment to customer service and a demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and work with a wide range of business, investors and stakeholders. * Ability to identify opportunities and synergies, and to integrate these through the effective engagement of stakeholders. * Experience or interest in supporting Maori business development and entrepreneurship. If you are keen to help Kapiti Coast businesses grow, enjoy a dynamic working environment, and a collaborative team, please get in touch. Copy and paste this link into your browser https://www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/media/kyxgahsh/jd-business-and-industry-lead-march-2026.pdf to view the job description. Mo Kapiti Coast District Council | About us Beautiful beaches and a short journey to or from Wellington make the Kapiti Coast a great place to live and work. Working for the Kapiti Coast District Council means being part of a caring, dynamic and effective customer-focused team who makes a positive difference in the community we serve. To find out more about our vision and direction click on here. Enquiries about this position should be directed to Mark Ward, Business Innovation Manager on 027 234 9063 or to Mark.Ward@kapiticoast.govt.nz. The preferred candidate will be required to undergo the usual pre-employment checks, including drug and alcohol screening, criminal history, and credit checks. Please note you must be eligible to work in New Zealand. *Before you apply, please ensure that you have the following documentation ready: your cover letter, CV, a copy of your work visa (if applicable) and Drivers Licence. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and interviews will be held as suitable candidates apply. Closing date Friday, 8 May 2026