Executive Advisor - Regulatory

About the Role

This Executive Advisor will serve as the valued strategic partner to the General Manager of Regulatory and Director of Land Transport, positioned centrally within executive leadership and governance. The position is integral to Regulatory's success by offering insightful, coordinated, and high-quality counsel across a broad and varied portfolio. It is a high-impact role that collaborates cross-functionally, linking people, information, and projects to aid in well-informed decision-making and effective delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic thought leadership and trusted guidance to the Regulatory GGM/Director Land Transport and Leadership Team.
• Assist in advancing Regulatory strategy and New Zealand Transport Agency's core priorities.
• Identify, evaluate, and manage risks, emerging challenges, and opportunities proactively.
• Facilitate planning and quality assurance for Board, Executive Leadership Team, Committee, and ministerial inputs.
• Support strategy formulation, business planning, and organization-wide initiatives.
• Enhance leadership effectiveness, organizational alignment, and collaborative working methods.
• Forge strong relationships within NZTA, government entities, and external partners.
• Contribute to internal communications, engagement, and change management efforts.
• Partner with Finance on budgeting, forecasting, and financial oversight.
• Champion Māori worldviews, language, customs, and uphold obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi.

Candidate Profile

• Proven experience delivering high-quality strategic advice to senior leadership in complex, large-scale organizations.
• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking abilities to translate insights into actionable recommendations.
• Skilled at building trusted relationships and influencing multifaceted stakeholder groups.
• Experience in governance processes, strategic planning, organizational performance, or enterprise initiatives.
• Outstanding written communication skills, capable of preparing executive-level briefings and reports.
• Highly organized, adept at managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Sound judgment, initiative-taking, and problem-solving aptitude.
• Capable of working independently while delivering outcomes via collaboration and influence.

Additional valued experience includes familiarity with regulatory, public sector, or government settings and knowledge of regulatory frameworks, governance, and government decision processes.

A commitment to or willingness to learn and embrace Te Ao Māori principles, Te Reo Māori, tikanga Māori, and the Treaty of Waitangi is essential.

About the Organization

Te Rōpū Waeture | Regulatory is New Zealand's principal regulator for land transport. Their purpose is to ensure the transport system operates safely, efficiently, effectively, and in the public interest, applying firm and fair regulatory practices grounded in good governance and Māori values. They focus on system-wide safety and risk, compliance encouragement through education, and evidence-based enforcement actions to deliver improved safety outcomes nationwide.

Benefits and Work Environment

• Competitive remuneration and comprehensive benefits package.
• Flexible work options subject to role requirements.
• Five weeks of annual leave.
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance available for permanent employees.
• Opportunities for career progression within a large, multifaceted organization.
• An inclusive, values-driven workplace fostering personal and professional growth.

Additional Information

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. Waka Kotahi is committed to equal employment opportunity, diversity, and inclusiveness. Support to accommodate access requirements during recruitment can be requested. Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting will begin promptly and the vacancy may close earlier than listed.

Applications close on 26 October 2026.