Business Analyst - Data

The role

We are currently seeking a Business Analyst who is passionate about data to join the Information Services team within the Regional Services & Information Group as a Business Analyst - Data.

This is a 12-month fixed-term position based in Palmerston North.

In this role, you'll combine traditional business analysis skills with a strong focus on data. You'll work closely with teams across Council to understand how information is created, managed, shared and used, helping identify opportunities to improve processes, reporting, system integration and data-driven decision making. From business process analysis and requirements gathering through to data governance, reporting and information management, you'll help ensure Council's information assets deliver value and support better outcomes for our communities.

About you

You are an experienced Business Analyst who enjoys understanding how organisations work and using data to help solve business problems. You can comfortably move between conversations about business processes, stakeholder needs, reporting requirements and data structures, and you know how to translate complex information into practical solutions that people can understand and use.

You are naturally curious, ask good questions, and enjoy uncovering opportunities to improve the way information is managed and used. You have experience working with business stakeholders to identify requirements, analyse processes and information flows, and support the delivery of projects and organisational change. You understand that good data is the foundation for effective decision-making and are passionate about helping organisations improve their data maturity.

To be successful in this role, you'll bring:

• Proven experience in a Business Analyst, Systems Analyst or similar role, with a strong focus on data, information management or digital transformation.
• Strong business analysis skills, including stakeholder engagement, requirements gathering, process mapping and problem solving.
• Experience working with data, information flows, reporting requirements, system integration or information management practices.
• The ability to analyse complex information and translate it into clear recommendations and actionable outcomes.
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• A collaborative approach and the ability to build strong relationships across teams and disciplines.
• Experience supporting business improvement initiatives, system implementations, reporting projects, or data-related programmes of work.

A qualification or professional certification in Business Analysis, Data Management, Information Management, Computer Science, or a related discipline would be advantageous.

What will really make you stand out is a genuine interest in how data can be used to improve services, support decision-making, and create better outcomes for both staff and the communities we serve.

Why join us?

When you join us, you can look forward to a rewarding career full of opportunities to develop a positive and supportive work environment. We do this through:

• Positive focus on employee health, wellness and wellbeing initiatives across the organisation including your birthday off, wellness day, life insurance for all permanent staff and 5 weeks leave after 2 years of service.
• Flexible family friendly work environment.
• Ongoing development and opportunities across the organisation to grow, specialise or diversify your skills.
• Working together for a better environment across our region.
• A supportive and social work environment across the organisation.

About us

The Horizons region extends over 22,200km2 – from Ruapehu in the north and Horowhenua in the south, to Whanganui in the west and Tararua in the east. We work with and for our community in the use and protection of our environment, managing our precious resources of land, air and water; as well as public transport and a key role in emergency management. At Horizons Regional Council we work to make our region a healthy environment where people are thriving, including our staff.

Horizons are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to ensuring we have a diverse and inclusive workplace so our people reflect the diversity of our region.

Applications close at 5pm on Sunday 30 August 2026 however, we will be reviewing and processing applications as they are received, so we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.

For a copy of the Job Description visit business-analyst---data---job-description-aug-2026.pdf