Lead Advisor - Planning & Development
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
Wellington, Wellington Region, New Zealand (Hybrid) · Full Time
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- Experience
- Any
- Salary
- NZD 160,000 – NZD 180,000 / year
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 53 minutes ago
- Work mode
- Hybrid
- Eligibility
- Applicants must have lawful authorization to live and work in New Zealand.
- Resume
- Required to apply
Where you'll work
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Job description
Role Overview
Join New Zealand's transport future by stepping into a crucial Lead Advisor position within the Infrastructure Development & Delivery business. This permanent full-time role is based primarily in Auckland or Wellington, with some flexibility for the ideal candidate, requiring close collaboration with senior leaders through a predominantly office-based 4-day workweek.
With a salary ranging from $160,000 to $180,000 plus benefits, this position places you at the heart of strategic transport planning and delivery across NZTA.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a trusted strategic advisor to the National Manager Planning & Development and senior leadership.
- Influence and coordinate significant transport projects and programs nationwide.
- Lead planning, governance, and business performance activities supporting infrastructure delivery.
- Manage responses to sensitive emerging issues and help shape executive-level communications, including Board and Ministerial materials.
- Ensure quality control of correspondence, including customer responses and Official Information Act requests.
- Identify and foster collaboration opportunities within NZTA and the broader transport sector.
- Drive special projects and strategic initiatives aligned with organizational goals.
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate will demonstrate strong capabilities in strategic thinking, governance advisory, and operational coordination within complex organizational environments. Political acuity, high credibility, and the ability to cultivate trusted stakeholder relationships are essential.
Required Experience and Skills
- Extensive experience in senior advisory or chief-of-staff roles within large, complex organizations.
- Proven track record in supporting senior executives effectively.
- Exceptional writing and communication skills for preparing executive, Board, and Ministerial-level reports and presentations.
- Strong problem-solving skills and strategic mindset.
- Excellent planning, coordination, and organizational expertise.
- Ability to effectively handle ambiguity, competing priorities, and rapidly changing issues.
- Strong relationship management and influencing capabilities.
- A collaborative and customer-oriented approach focused on delivering results.
- Knowledge or willingness to deepen understanding of Te Ao Māori, te reo Māori, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi within the public sector context.
About Infrastructure Development & Delivery (IDD)
IDD oversees New Zealand's national land transport capital programme, from early planning and solution development through delivery, ensuring investments are well-defined and managed to benefit communities long-term. The Planning & Development team within IDD provides strategic guidance that directs investments and supports delivery excellence.
Benefits and Working Conditions
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Flexible work arrangements with a 4-day in-office workweek.
- Five weeks of annual leave.
- Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance.
- Opportunities for career growth and development.
- A supportive, inclusive team culture.
Additional Information
Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. Waka Kotahi embraces diversity and inclusion, committed to providing a supportive work environment. Early application is encouraged as shortlisting may begin prior to the closing date of October 14, 2026.