If you’re driving on a new road in Tauranga, there’s a good chance Raj helped find the money to pay for it.
Raj’s role as Senior Investment Advisor – Transport, is to apply for and secure 51% of funding from the New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA) Waka Kotahi for transport projects. He works within the Business Case process to ensure Tauranga can benefit as much as possible from national funding. Working with another agency like this requires a huge focus on whanaungatanga and collaboration – something Raj is exceptionally good at.
Raj’s journey with council started in 2019 as a Governance Advisor, working with councillors and commissioners. He stepped into corporate planning two years later, before moving to Transport in 2023. Each new role has been a level up in his career, building on his skills and supporting his professional development.
In his role (as with his other ones), Raj gets to do his part for our community and city so that we leave behind a legacy for future residents and generations to enjoy – something which he is passionate about.
“At TCC, our work makes sure that everyday things happen - water flows from taps, toilets flush, footpaths are in good condition, bus stops are built, parks are mowed, etc. But we also get to do some really cool things like rebuilding the city, designing future suburbs, installing skate parks, putting in place innovative sustainability solutions, and so much more.
“I absolutely love working here. We’re like a big family. The work we do is not easy, but TCC tries to make the work manageable, enjoyable, and safe, providing support such as flexible working arrangements, opportunities to upskill, and a welcoming and supportive work environment. And just like any family, there are ups and downs, but we always have each other’s backs and get on doing what we were hired for – to do our very best for our community and city.”
