Chief Information Security Officer

About the Role

Tauranga is rapidly growing and relies heavily on technology to support its community, services, and sustained development. The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) will steer how Tauranga City Council manages cyber security, digital risk, enterprise architecture, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. This senior leadership position offers the chance to make a profound, lasting impact by shaping cyber security, digital trust, and AI governance for one of New Zealand's fastest expanding local authorities.

Reporting directly to the Chief Digital Officer, the CISO will determine the strategic direction for information security across the organisation. They will navigate complex cybersecurity challenges, increasing regulatory demands, and technological advancements while advising the Chief Executive, Executive Leadership Team, and elected representatives. The role encompasses setting strategies for cyber risk management, resilience, and digital trust embedded within organizational decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategy and governance frameworks, including the development of roadmaps.
• Safeguard vital information, systems, and digital services to maintain community trust in the Council.
• Enhance cyber resilience and coordinate responses to significant security incidents.
• Provide clear, impartial advice and assurance to senior leaders and elected members.
• Translate cyber risks into actionable business priorities to inform investment decisions.
• Oversee compliance with security regulations, third-party assurances, and sensitive investigations.
• Develop and enforce security guidelines for artificial intelligence and automation technologies.
• Champion cyber governance for AI and ensure responsible adoption of emerging technologies.
• Serve as executive sponsor for Enterprise Architecture, influencing strategy, investments, and transformative initiatives.
• Foster strong relationships with government agencies, regulators, industry peers, and security leaders nationwide.

Qualifications and Experience

• A relevant bachelor's degree, ideally complemented by postgraduate qualifications.
• Over 10 years of experience leading cyber or information security initiatives, including senior management or executive roles, preferably as a CISO.
• Possession of reputable industry certifications like CISSP, CISM, CRISC or equivalents.
• Proven leadership over security strategies, budgeting, vendor management, and multidisciplinary teams in complex environments.
• Deep understanding of security frameworks and legislation such as NZISM, Protective Security Requirements, ISO 27001, NIST, PCI DSS, and the Privacy Act 2020.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing responses to major cybersecurity incidents.
• Familiarity with AI governance, responsible technology adoption, and the risks related to emerging technologies.
• Ability to translate technical risks clearly for executive management, governance bodies, elected officials, and regulators.
• Strong communication, relationship building, and influencing skills.

Additional Experience and Attributes

Experience in local or central government, or other heavily regulated and complex settings, will be advantageous. Developing security functions, collaborating with national cybersecurity agencies, and contributing as a senior leadership team member are also valued experiences. The candidate will demonstrate collaborative leadership, foster a culture where cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility, and uphold Tauranga City Council’s values, health and safety, emergency management, and partnership commitments under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

About Tauranga City Council

Serving one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing cities, the Council plays a vital role in planning growth, infrastructure delivery, and community outcomes. Digital innovation, resilience, and emerging technologies are core to the future vision where the CISO will be instrumental. Based in the scenic Bay of Plenty, Tauranga offers an excellent lifestyle with a vibrant community, beaches, and outdoor activities.

Perks and Benefits

• Leadership role with broad organizational influence at an executive level.
• Opportunity to shape cyber security, AI governance, and enterprise architecture futures.
• Flexible and supportive working arrangements.
• Five weeks of annual leave each year.
• Access to ongoing professional growth and leadership development.
• Engagement in impactful work supporting city resilience and digital advancement.

Eligibility and Application Notes

• Applicants must possess the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.
• Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed, including individuals with disabilities.
• Adjustments for the recruitment process are available upon request.
• Contact from recruitment agencies is not accepted, and no fees or commissions will be paid.

The Council emphasizes building a diverse workforce reflective of the community it serves.