Damien Clark is a young leader working at New Plymouth District Council. As Manager Community and Economic Development, he works with the Ngāmotu New Plymouth community to deliver collective action that builds a better future.
What does service to the community mean to you?
Service to the community for me is an attitude of service consistent through every layer of our work, not just delivery. Yes, in our mahi, but also our teams, our leadership and our organisation, towards an orientation of service. This shifts us from service to the community towards service with our community where we co-create the change that transforms lives.
How does your work make a difference?
At its core Community and Economic Development is about working with the community to develop, and deliver, the solutions to the things that they care about. We do this by facilitating meaningful connections that result in positive action, fostering deeper insight for real solutions and influencing systems for lasting change.
What achievements are you most proud of?
There are dozens of grass roots initiatives I’ve been involved in getting off the ground, but the achievement I’m most proud of recently is the work I’ve led to reinvigorate a local partnership that invests in the development and upskilling of community leaders in Taranaki with new strategic direction and investment.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Meeting with iwi, hapū and community groups in person and out on the frontline to discover where we can work together, remove barriers or build partnerships to be able to accelerate the difference they are making in our community.
Lead all the time, wherever you are, no matter what role you’re in or where you are in the organisation. Our world needs you to lead.
What are 3 words you would use to describe your work?
People. Purpose. Passion.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in the public sector?
Volunteer, get on boards, be a part of clubs, be a part of your local community, never stop learning. This way you stay as connected as you can to community to keep yourself grounded while also taking opportunities to invest in yourself as a well-rounded person, professional and leader. Lead all the time, wherever you are, no matter what role you’re in or where you are in the organisation. Our world needs you to lead.
About Te Hāpai Hapori | Spirit of Service Awards
Damien Clark is a finalist of Te Tohu mō te Kaiārahi Rangatahi o te Tau | Young Leader of the Year Award at Te Hāpai Hapori | Spirit of Service Awards 2025. The award celebrates inspirational young public sector leaders who demonstrate exceptional motivation and commitment to delivering for New Zealand and New Zealanders. Winners will be announced on Thursday 4 September.
The awards are made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors ANZSOG – The Australia and New Zealand School of Government, DXC Technology Australia and New Zealand, Victoria University of Wellington School of Government, Westpac New Zealand, and Deloitte.
