Principal Advisor Road Policing Investment

• An opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping evidence‑based investment decisions that directly improve safety outcomes for every road user in Aotearoa New Zealand 

• Senior advisory role with national impact 

• Permanent opportunity based in Wellington / Auckland / Christchurch 

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity 

As Principal Advisor – Road Policing Investment, you will provide strategic advice, analysis, and thought leadership to support NZ Transport Agency’s investment partnerships with NZ Police. Working at a system level, you will help shape road policing programmes that improve safety outcomes across Aotearoa New Zealand. 

You will operate in a complex, high trust environment, contributing to programme development, performance reporting, and advice to Ministers, governance forums, and senior leaders. This role sits within Te Tūāpae – System Leadership, where evidence, collaboration, and influence are central to how we work. 

You will find out more about the role here: Position Description.

Ngā mahi | What you will do 

In this role, you will: 

• Provide strategic analytical advice and thought leadership to inform road policing investment decisions 

• Lead and contribute to projects that support national road safety outcomes and system performance 

• Work closely with NZ Police, Ministry of Transport, internal leaders, and road safety partners 

• Prepare and contribute to high-quality reporting, including advice to Ministers and governance forums 

• Apply a whole of system lens, evaluating risks, impacts, and benefits of investment decisions 

• Influence and support strategy and policy development through evidence-based insights 

• Communicate complex analysis clearly and compellingly for diverse audiences 

Ō pūmanawa | What we’re looking for 

Our ideal candidate will bring some or all of the following (but don’t worry if you don’t tick every box): 

• Proven experience delivering strategic advice and analysis in complex, multi-stakeholder environments 

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking capability 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders 

• Experience working collaboratively across organisations, including with external partners 

• Political awareness and confidence navigating sensitive or high-profile issues 

• A proactive, systems-focused mindset with a strong commitment to outcome-focused delivery 

• Tertiary qualification in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience 

• Experience or existing networks in road safety, justice, or policing environments will be an advantage. 

You will also demonstrate, or be willing to develop, an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Te Ao Māori, and the role of the public sector in supporting Treaty partnerships. 

Mō mātou | About us 

At NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, our purpose is to move together to create a better, safer transport system for all New Zealanders. 

Te Tūāpae – System Leadership plays a critical role in setting strategic direction, building strong partnerships, and creating a robust evidence base to support long-term system performance and investment decisions. 

We value diversity, inclusion, and the unique perspectives our people bring. We want you to feel you belong here — respected, supported, and empowered to do your best work. 

He aha te take e uru ai koe ki a mātou? | Why join us? 

• Meaningful work that contributes to road safety and public wellbeing 

• Five weeks’ annual leave and a comprehensive benefits package 

• Flexible working arrangements that support work / life balance 

• Opportunities for career development, learning, and secondments 

• A values-led organisation committed to integrity, collaboration and impact 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply 

Please click Apply to submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.