Paul Cooper

Paul Cooper has a diverse work experience. Paul started their career in the Royal Navy as a Marine Engineer from 1987 to 1996. After leaving the navy, they joined the New Zealand Police force in 1998 as a Constable. Paul was later promoted to the role of Detective, specializing in serious crime investigations and crime scene coordination. Paul also served as a Police Negotiator during their time with the police force.

In 2013, Paul joined the Timaru District Council as the Environmental Compliance Manager and Civil Defence Controller. In this role, they oversaw activities such as alcohol licensing, environmental health, parking, animal control, and bylaws. Paul also served as a controller for civil defence emergency management.

In 2018, Paul moved to the Waimate District Council as the Regulatory and Compliance Group Manager. Here, they were responsible for overseeing the delivery of various statutory functions, including building control, district planning, environmental health, health and safety, and civil defence emergency management.

In 2019, Paul joined Taituarā - Local Government Professionals Aotearoa as a member of the Regulations & Bylaws Committee.

Most recently, in 2021, Paul rejoined the Timaru District Council as the Group Manager of Environmental Services.

Paul Cooper completed a Diploma in Policing from NZ Police in 2000. In 2015, they pursued a Certificate in Public Relations and Communication Management from the Open Polytechnic of New Zealand. From 2017 to 2018, Paul attended Massey University for the CDEM Controllers' Development Programme, focusing on Emergency Management.