High profile regional leadership role
High impact stakeholder management
Support regional delivery of major transport projects delivering significant economic and community benefits
The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi
As the Director Regional Relationships you will take the lead in building and managing relationships with key regional partners and stakeholders. You will enhance and maintain the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) presence, performance and reputation in the Northland and Auckland regions.
In this senior position you will be a key member of our Group Leadership team, reporting to the Group General Manager Engagement & Partnerships | Te Waka Kōtuia.
To view a copy of the position description, click here.
About you | Ko koe tēnei
To be successful in this role you will be adept at building strong collaborative relationships across local, regional and central government and Iwi. You will have a broad understanding of the machinery of government with good political nous. An understanding of how the transport sector can influence regional economic and community outcomes is essential.
You will represent NZTA at key regional forums, events and in media, and will chair the NZTA regional leadership team.
Essential experience and attributes:
Significant leadership experience, with ability to build and leverage relationships at a senior level
Exceptional skills in facilitating and influencing stakeholders
An ability to build strong relationships and create strategic alignment between regional stakeholders
A good understanding of the wider government context and regulatory environment
Experience working with Iwi partners, local government and with senior executives
Proven strategic capability with ability to maintain complex relationship frameworks
Media expertise and an ability to manage local issues
If the idea of influencing the regional growth and development of the high profile Northland and Auckland region excites you and you enjoy managing a broad spectrum of relationships then this is the role for you.
Ko wai mātou | About us
The Engagement and Partnerships Group is accountable for leading effective agency governance, iwi and stakeholder engagement, customer communications and regional relationships. We support the achievement of transport outcomes and the regional delivery of projects through effective relationship management and effective community engagement practice.
Along with our other benefits, we also have NZTA Life, Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance scheme available for permanent employees. Other benefits include:
5 weeks annual leave, 15 days sick leave after 3 years’ service
Annual flu vaccinations, health checks and eye tests
A well-being initiative supporting activities that make a difference to both physical and mental well-being
Service recognition programme
If this sounds like the opportunity for you, APPLY now submitting your CV along with your cover letter detailing your suitability.
Rā Katinga | Applications close:
1 February 2026For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz
To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.
Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.
Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.