Personal Assistant

About Environment Canterbury

Environment Canterbury, the regional council for Canterbury, New Zealand, manages natural resources such as air, soil, water, and land. Working closely with mana whenua Ngāi Tahu, the council aims to preserve environmental health for the region's sustainable future. Their work adapts flexibly to changes in environmental and political landscapes, focusing on three core areas: environmental regulation and protection, community preparedness and response to hazards, and public transport.

Role Overview

This vital position provides comprehensive administrative and operational assistance to two senior leaders within the Strategy and Planning Section. The personal assistant will handle multiple competing priorities, manage critical workflows, organize information efficiently, and ensure leaders are equipped with necessary insights to make well-informed decisions.

Primary Responsibilities

• Manage intricate diaries, emails, meetings, and travel plans.
• Prepare professional correspondence, reports, presentations, and briefing documents.
• Organize meetings including agendas, minute-taking, and tracking follow-up tasks.
• Assist in recruitment processes, onboarding staff, and general business administration activities.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with both internal teams and external partners.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a proactive, highly organized professional who thrives bringing order to busy environments. Exceptional judgment, keen attention to detail, and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism are essential. Collaborative communication skills across diverse groups, along with strong support for senior leadership, are key attributes.

Experience and Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in Business Administration or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum three years in a Personal Assistant, Executive Assistant, or related business support capacity.
• Proven experience supporting senior managers or leaders in similar roles.
• Excellent organizational and time management capabilities.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with flexibility amid changing demands.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office and quick adaptability to new software systems.
• Competence in document preparation, administration, and records management.
• Discreet, professional approach with political sensitivity.

Workplace Culture and Values

Environment Canterbury bases its work on values of stewardship (kaitiakitanga), integrity (pononga), putting people first (manaakitanga), collaboration (whanaungatanga), and a proactive can-do attitude (māiatanga). The council embraces workforce diversity as essential to serving the community and environment effectively. It actively supports te ao Māori principles and encourages staff to integrate Māori knowledge and language into daily work.

Additional Information

• To apply, candidates should submit a completed application form along with a CV and cover letter.
• The application deadline is Wednesday, 19 August; applications are reviewed upon receipt with the possibility of early interviews and early closure of the vacancy.
• Shortlisted applicants will undergo an interview, reference checks, and criminal background verification; additional checks may apply based on role specifics.
• The council promotes an inclusive, diverse workplace and encourages applications even if all qualifications are not met.