General Manager Strategic Projects

Great South exists for one purpose – creating even better lives through sustainable regional development. Working across business, infrastructure, investment, innovation and sustainability, Great South brings together government, industry, iwi and communities to deliver projects that will strengthen Murihiku Southland for generations to come.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an exceptional project and programme leader to join the Executive Team as General Manager – Strategic Projects.

This role follows the retirement of a highly respected leader whose work has helped shape some of Southland’s most significant regional initiatives. Rather than replacing decades of experience, we’re looking for someone who is ready to build on that legacy and create one of their own.

This is not a role where you’ll simply oversee existing programmes. You’ll identify opportunities, test ideas, lead feasibility work, build business cases, secure support and funding, and guide complex projects through planning, governance and delivery until they become real outcomes that benefit the region.

Every project is different. Some will involve infrastructure, some investment, some sustainability, some technology and innovation. All will require you to bring people together, navigate complexity and maintain momentum.

You’ll lead a capable and passionate team while working alongside an equally committed Executive Team in an organisation recognised for its collaborative culture, strong relationships and genuine commitment to making a difference.

You may already be leading major projects or programmes within infrastructure, engineering, consulting, government, regional development, utilities, primary industries or another complex environment.

Most importantly, you’ll demonstrate that you can:

• lead complex projects from concept through feasibility, planning, governance and successful delivery
• think commercially while balancing stakeholder expectations and long-term regional outcomes
• build credibility with a wide range of stakeholders including government, industry, iwi and community partners
• lead and motivate capable professionals while creating a positive, high-performing team environment
• bring energy, initiative and drive to opportunities rather than waiting for someone else to create them.

You won’t need to have spent your career in regional development. What matters is your ability to lead significant initiatives, solve complex problems and turn ambitious ideas into tangible outcomes.

This is a rare opportunity to combine executive leadership with work that has genuine and lasting impact. You’ll join an organisation with an outstanding culture, supportive leadership and a team that is passionate about the future of Murihiku Southland.

Every project you deliver has the potential to strengthen businesses, communities and the regional economy. If you’re looking for meaningful work where your leadership can leave a lasting legacy, we’d love to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion about the role; contact Deb Vaughan on E: [email protected] or by mobile on 022 850 0188

To discover more about Great South, visit www.greatsouth.nz   

Applications close: 3rd August 2026