Watching discussions and paperwork become tangible change across Hamilton never stops being a thrill for Amy Viggers.
As Hamilton City Council’s Governance Team Leader, she plays an important role in that change.
Amy and her team are a bridge between politics and Council’s operations.
Day to day, Amy’s team makes sure Elected Members have the information and advice they need to make the best decisions for the community.
From a project’s beginnings on a Council meeting agenda, to its completion – her team oversees it all.
It means there’s never a dull moment and ‘normal days’ don’t exist. One day Amy could be at a Council meeting, the next she could be talking about a new strategy or consultation plan.
Amy has been part of the 1200-strong Council team for nearly five years. The decision to join Council launched her career in local government and she was quickly hooked.
“You get to learn about everything, and you never stop learning. Some days you’re finding out about the Hamilton Gardens while others you’re getting to know more about water treatment. This role really ignites your passion for Hamilton.”
Seeing decisions come to fruition is a highlight for Amy.
She remembers seeing the first report on the Housing Infrastructure Fund put in front of Elected Members. Over the following months those proposals, and plans became a reality.
“All of a sudden you start seeing development, and you go ‘wow, I was part of that’.
“I truly love Hamilton. It’s such a vibrant place and working to make it even better has given me a new perspective on everything that goes into protecting and improving it.”
A big part of her team’s role involves ensuring Council meetings – where the big decisions are made – run smoothly.
“It’s where it all comes together. You don’t always see us, but we’re always there, behind the scenes. We make sure Council staff and Elected Members have everything they need to make the best decisions for the city.”
There aren’t any specific qualifications needed to kickstart a career in Governance, but you do need to be a ‘people person’ with an eagerness to learn.
Council’s workplace culture is the best Amy encountered, too. She’s been encouraged to keep seizing new opportunities, including her current role as Team Leader.
Amy and her team are always looking for new ways to be bold and do things differently. She never gets tired of the “coffee and lift chats”, that can lead to great collaboration and brainstorming.
Her advice for anyone considering joining Council is emphatic.
“Just do it. It’s the best career decision you’ll make. Council is a place to grow, to learn, to be innovative and to be happy. You get to watch ideas become reality.”
Have you ever thought about kickstarting your career with Hamilton City Council? We want people who are passionate about our city and driven to make an impact on the community – people who want to shape an awesome Hamilton.
Connect with us and find out about role vacancies here:
