Head of System Leadership Strategic Programmes

Location: Wellington or Auckland

Job Type: Full-time

• Lead enterprise‑wide strategic programmes that shape New Zealand’s land transport system
• Operate at the heart of NZTA’s system leadership, working with the Executive Leadership Team and senior stakeholders
• Build enduring capability and deliver outcomes that matter for New Zealanders

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity   

As Head of System Leadership – Strategic Programmes, you will establish and lead complex, multi‑year programmes that materially advance NZTA’s strategic outcomes and improve land transport system performance over time.

Working in close collaboration with the Group General Manager System Leadership and with direction from Executive Leadership Team, you will set programme intent, scope, sequencing and resourcing; align priorities across the organisation; and provide confidence that major programmes are well governed, transparent, and delivering public value.

You will hold end‑to‑end accountability for strategic programme delivery. This includes supporting programme directors, directly leading programme teams, influencing delivery across business groups where accountability sits elsewhere, and actively managing system‑wide interdependencies to optimise outcomes and organisational capacity.

A key focus of the role is lifting NZTA’s enterprise programme maturity. You will embed fit‑for‑purpose governance, assurance, risk and financial disciplines, and ensure that capability, change and benefits endure well beyond programme closure.

You can find out more about the role here Position Description

Ko koe tēnei | About you   

This is a senior leadership role for an experienced system leader who thrives in complexity, operates confidently at pace, and combines strategic thinking with delivery discipline.

You will bring:

• Extensive experience leading the establishment and delivery of large and complex strategic programmes
• Deep understanding of the machinery of government and existing relationships within Treasury and other government agencies would be advantageous
• Strong visionary leadership, with demonstrated success building, leading and growing high‑performing, cross‑functional teams
• Demonstrated commercial and investment-focused business acumen
• Highly effective planning and organisational skills including the ability to manage interdependencies across multiple programmes and business groups
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to frame complex issues, influence change and sustain senior stakeholder support
• High levels of integrity, honesty and trustworthiness

A background in land transport and/or safety regulation is highly desirable.

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to build understanding of, Te Ao Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and you will actively promote tikanga and te reo Māori in your leadership practice within the public service.

Mō mātou |About Us

System Leadership – Te Tuāpae provides strategic direction for NZTA Waka Kotahi and leadership for the land transport system. We set long‑term strategic direction, lead innovation and strategic Crown Māori partnerships, build a strong evidence base for decision‑making, and develop integrated strategic programmes that support affordable, outcome‑focused investment for New Zealand.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return

At NZTA Waka Kotahi, you’ll be part of an organisation with a clear purpose and a strong commitment to making a meaningful difference for New Zealanders. We offer a supportive, values‑led culture with genuine opportunities to work at scale, influence nationally significant outcomes, and grow as a system leader.

Along with our other benefits we also have 5 weeks annual leave and an Income Protection and Critical illness Insurance scheme available for all permanent employees. Flexible working arrangements are available, depending on role requirements.

Closing Statement:
If you’re motivated by leading complex system change and delivering outcomes that matter for New Zealanders, we encourage you to apply.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply: 

Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

19 May 2026

For 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.