Manager Regulatory System Design

• Shape system level regulatory interventions and influence high impact decisions that improve safety outcomes for New Zealanders.
• Fixed term or inter agency secondment opportunity through until early Feb 2027
• Wellington preferred

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We have an opportunity for a Manager Regulatory System Design to join Te Rōpū Waeture – Regulatory to lead a high‑performing team responsible for shaping the future of New Zealand’s land transport regulatory system.

In this role, you will build and lead a high‑performing team responsible for delivering system design work and driving ongoing improvement of New Zealand’s land transport regulatory system. You will focus on strengthening the performance of the regulatory framework through evidence‑based analysis, systems thinking, and the identification and design of system‑level regulatory interventions.

You will support and lead your team to use data, evidence, insights and risk‑based analysis to understand system performance, prioritise interventions, and guide decision‑making. Working closely with the Head of Regulatory Design and Enablement, you will provide strategic leadership and expert advice while influencing regulatory practice across the organisation and broader land transport system.

This is a key leadership role where you’ll:

• Build and lead a high‑performing System Design team, fostering a culture of collaboration, systems thinking, evidence‑based practice and continuous improvement
• Lead complex system design and the identification and design of system‑level regulatory interventions, understanding how different parts of the system interact to improve performance and reduce harm
• Use data, insights and analysis to understand regulatory framework and system performance, and prioritise high‑impact interventions
• Contribute to the ongoing improvement and optimisation of regulatory frameworks, standards and guidance
• Influence regulatory practice and decision‑making across the organisation and wider regulatory system

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

We are seeking to appoint at a salary between $160,000 - $195,000 commensurate with skills and experience.

Ō Pūmanawa | What we're looking for

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

• Strong experience in leading teams through change and building high-performing, engaged cultures
• Demonstrated expertise in regulatory system design, including identifying and designing system level interventions
• Deep understanding of modern regulatory practice
• Proven ability to use data, insights and analysis to understand system performance, inform decision‑making and prioritise regulatory interventions
• Advanced strategic and analytical thinking skills
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with experience navigating complex environments
• Ability to provide clear, well‑judged advice and support senior decision‑making, including surfacing risks and trade‑offs
• Experience translating strategic intent into practical, future‑focused regulatory design and delivery outcomes

You will also demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to build understanding of Te Ao Māori, tikanga, and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in the public sector.

Mō mātou | About us

NZTA is responsible for delivering a safe, efficient and effective land transport system for Aotearoa.

Te Rōpū Waeture – Regulatory plays a critical role as the lead regulator for land transport – taking a system wide, risk-based approach to improving safety outcomes and reducing harm. This includes designing and continuously improving regulatory frameworks that are evidence based, proportionate, and responsive to the needs of the sector.

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

Our people are proud to be part of creating a safer and more connected Aotearoa. We’re looking for leaders who bring courage, insight and a strong sense of purpose to the work we do.

At NZTA, we value diverse perspectives and create an environment where people feel they belong – supported to grow and empowered to contribute their best.

From five weeks annual leave to comprehensive insurance benefits, we support your wellbeing. We also offer flexible working arrangements and a range of development opportunities to help you grow your leadership career.

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:

24 June 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.