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- Tasks: Lead strategic regulatory programmes to transform Aotearoa's transport system.
- Company: Join NZ Transport Agency, a purpose-driven organisation shaping the future of transport.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, five weeks leave, and comprehensive insurance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on transport safety and efficiency while leading innovative change.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic programme delivery and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusion in a collaborative environment with growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
About this role
Lead major strategic regulatory programmes shaping Aotearoa's transport system. Senior leadership role influencing change across government and industry. Drive transformation to deliver a safe, efficient and effective land transport regulatory system.
The opportunity
As the Head of Regulatory Strategic Programmes, you will lead the design and delivery of complex, large-scale programmes that ensure regulatory change in Aotearoa is delivered at the right time and in the right way - lifting performance, strengthening regulatory outcomes, and delivering tangible benefits for the public. You will oversee major strategic initiatives that establish new services or significantly improve how we regulate. You will also lead programme and project delivery teams, ensuring they are equipped to deliver at pace and to a high standard. By working in partnership with senior leaders across NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, industry, iwi, local government, and central government, you will shape long-term change and provide strategic clarity, governance assurance, and delivery excellence.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Providing strategic leadership and direction for Regulatory Strategic Programmes.
- Maintaining programme and portfolio oversight, including prioritisation, financial discipline, risk and assurance frameworks, and benefits realisation.
- Developing and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships across government, industry and Māori.
- Building and coaching high-performing programme delivery teams.
- Representing NZTA at senior levels and ensuring effective communication across governance forums.
- Leading the development of an integrated regulatory change story and vision.
About you
You will bring significant experience delivering large and complex strategic programmes, with strong commercial and government acumen. You are a strategic thinker, an influential leader, and someone who can operate confidently in ambiguity, ensuring clarity of direction and disciplined execution. To be successful in this role, you will bring:
- Extensive experience leading complex strategic programme delivery.
- Strong understanding of the machinery of government; relationships with key agencies advantageous.
- Proven ability to influence, engage and partner with senior stakeholders across sectors.
- Experience in regulatory or land transport environments is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to lead through change, build high-performing teams and enable capability uplift.
- Strong analytical, planning, governance and financial management skills.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain understanding of, Te Ao Māori, tikanga Māori, Te Reo Māori, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public sector.
Te Rōpū Waeture, Regulatory exists to ensure the land transport system is safe and effective for all. Our purpose is to provide oversight of regulatory interventions, enable responsive regulation, and ensure effective compliance systems that support safe access for people, devices and networks. We are a team committed to collaboration, innovation and transformation - working across NZTA and alongside partners to deliver a regulatory system that supports a thriving Aotearoa.
What you will get in return
At NZTA, you'll be part of a purpose-driven organisation shaping the future of Aotearoa's transport system. We offer:
- A competitive salary and benefits package.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Five weeks annual leave.
- Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance.
- A culture that values people, inclusion and wellbeing.
How to apply
Please click Apply to upload your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for this role.
Applications close: 22 February 2026.
For further information, email: be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand. NZTA 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.
Location: Canterbury
Head of Regulatory Strategic Programmes in Canterbury employer: New Zealand Government
Contact Detail:
New Zealand Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Regulatory Strategic Programmes in Canterbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the transport and regulatory sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet key players. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the NZ Transport Agency and its current initiatives. Show that you understand their goals and how your experience aligns with their mission. Tailor your responses to highlight your strategic leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up! Keep an eye on our website and apply directly through it. This way, you’ll be among the first to know about new opportunities and can showcase your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your interest in the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Regulatory Strategic Programmes in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Regulatory Strategic Programmes role. Highlight your experience in leading complex strategic programmes and your understanding of the machinery of government. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've influenced change and built high-performing teams. Remember, we love a good story that showcases your leadership skills!
Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills: In this role, you'll be working with various stakeholders across sectors. Make sure to highlight your experience in building strong relationships and your ability to engage with senior leaders. We want to know how you can bring people together to drive transformation!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at NZTA. We can't wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at New Zealand Government
✨Know Your Programmes Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the strategic regulatory programmes relevant to Aotearoa's transport system. Familiarise yourself with past initiatives and current challenges. This will not only show your commitment but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Build Relationships with Stakeholders
Since this role involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, think about how you can demonstrate your relationship-building skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with senior leaders or government agencies in the past, showcasing your ability to influence and collaborate.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a senior leadership role, it's crucial to convey your leadership philosophy. Be ready to discuss how you've built high-performing teams and led them through change. Use specific examples that highlight your strategic thinking and ability to deliver results under pressure.
✨Understand Te Ao Māori and Its Importance
Given the emphasis on understanding Te Ao Māori, be prepared to discuss your knowledge or willingness to learn about Māori culture and its relevance in the public sector. This shows respect for the values of the organisation and your readiness to engage with diverse communities.
