Indeed, the Wellington City Council aims to influence our behaviors, employing two staff members titled “Behaviour Change Specialists” for this purpose. One of their primary tasks is to encourage more people to opt for biking, walking, or using public transportation.

Their mandate extends to fostering an enthusiastic acceptance of these alternative modes of transportation. They are also charged with conceptualizing and executing behavior change initiatives, evaluating their effectiveness, and overseeing their implementation.

After obtaining their detailed job description through an LGIOMA request, it’s clear that they have a substantial role to play in effecting change.

The Behavior Change team focuses on strategizing and implementing initiatives to reduce the city’s carbon footprint and enhance road safety. Their primary aim is to promote significant shifts in transportation modes in Wellington, advocating for alternative methods of commuting like walking, cycling, and public transport.

Collaborating closely with communication and engagement staff in the City Design unit, the Urban Regeneration team, and the Climate Action Campaign Lead, they also liaise with the Regional Council’s transport behavior change team.

Their role involves designing behavior change strategies, managing project delivery, and collaborating with colleagues to encourage more sustainable transportation choices. They specifically emphasize ensuring that infrastructure investments aimed at facilitating these changes are embraced with enthusiasm.

Their responsibilities span various areas, including:

• Developing travel behavior change strategies and executing planned initiatives.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of these initiatives to prioritize impactful interventions.
• Understanding stakeholder perspectives and engagement in travel behavior change projects.
• Acquiring expertise in Wellington’s travel behavior patterns, road safety risks, and low-carbon transport options.
• Applying behavior change theories to drive shifts in travel behavior, especially concerning active and public transport infrastructure.
• Conducting surveys to gauge travel behavior.
• Collaborating with the Regional Council on travel plan programs and supporting initiatives such as Bikes in Schools.
• Providing expert advice to Councilors and management on travel behavior change.

Additionally, they are responsible for project management tasks, including:

• Utilizing project management tools to ensure timely and budgeted delivery of initiatives.
•  Establishing key performance indicators and measuring the impact of initiatives.
• Reporting progress to WCC managers and funding organizations.

They also manage budgetary aspects, monitor project expenses, and contribute to funding applications.

Furthermore, their role entails fostering collaborative relationships, providing assistance to team members, and maintaining effective partnerships with external organizations and stakeholders.

They are also expected to monitor and suggest improvements to work practices, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.

In alignment with Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, they demonstrate a commitment to partnership, participation, and protection. This includes ongoing professional development in understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Tikanga Māori, and Te Reo Māori.

Regarding health, safety, and security, they understand and adhere to relevant frameworks and legislation, recognizing and addressing issues promptly while ensuring the wellbeing of all involved.

Credit Scoop