Governance Advisor

About the Role

Join NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi as a Governance Advisor to play a pivotal role in enabling high-standard governance and sound decision-making across the organisation. Working in partnership with the General Counsel, Governance and Funding, you will lead the comprehensive planning and execution of Board and Committee activities within a complex and prominent entity.

Your responsibilities will include maintaining governance frameworks and systems, managing calendars and agendas for the Board, and preparing well-crafted, timely Board papers and meeting documentation. Collaborating closely with colleagues organisation-wide, you will ensure adherence to governance standards, requirements, and deadlines.

As a vital liaison between the Board, Executive Leadership Team, and the broader organisation, you’ll cultivate trusted relationships, handle multiple competing demands, and drive compliant and continually refined governance processes. You will also seek opportunities to streamline governance practices, adopting more straightforward and efficient methods.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate governance programs and Board support activities in a complex environment.
• Maintain governance systems, frameworks, and accurate records.
• Organise and manage Board calendars, agendas, and meeting packs.
• Develop high-quality and punctual Board and Committee documentation.
• Work across teams to ensure governance protocols and compliance requirements are met.
• Manage sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discernment.
• Identify and implement continuous improvements to governance workflows.

Candidate Profile

• Experience in managing governance programs and supporting Boards within complex organisations.
• Comprehensive understanding of governance processes, compliance, and Board obligations.
• Proficiency in preparing, reviewing, and coordinating Board and Committee output.
• Exceptional attention to detail in document, records, and information management.
• Confidence in engaging senior leaders and nurturing trusted relationships.
• Able to perform effectively in ambiguous, fast-paced situations with evolving priorities.
• Exemplary judgment, diplomacy, and professionalism when handling confidential matters.
• A proactive mindset focused on continuous improvement and simplification of procedures.
• Strong skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and familiarity with Diligent or similar governance systems.
• Preferably holds a Legal Executive qualification or has experience in executive administration, business, or related fields.
• Interest or willingness to learn about Te Ao Māori, tikanga, Te Reo Māori, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi as relevant to the public sector.

About Our Team

The General Counsel Office supports NZTA’s integrity, legal compliance, and operational resilience by providing leadership in governance, legal, procurement, risk, and assurance functions.

Benefits and Culture

Employees enjoy benefits such as five weeks of annual leave, Life, Income Protection, and Critical Illness Insurance. Our flexible work approach ensures arrangements that support individuals, teams, and organisational needs. Opportunities for professional development and career progression are available through various learning and secondment options.

Additional Information

Applications must include a CV and cover letter outlining suitability. The closing date is 30 September 2026. Candidates must have legal rights to live and work in New Zealand. Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion, offering support for access or recruitment needs. Early applications are encouraged as recruitment may close at any time.