Manager, Legal at Financial Markets Authority, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

A great place to work. With great work to do.   

Ours is a meaningful and impactful role, as a kaitiaki (caretaker) of the financial services in Aotearoa. We oversee a market that does right by everyone, ensuring better outcomes for all New Zealanders. Our role as a kaitiaki is brought to life by our values; Look to the Horizon, Help the Team Work, Make the Calls and Open Hearts, Open Minds.   

Te Tūranga | The Role   

Join us as Manager, Legal, where you'll work alongside the Head of Legal and another Manager to lead a team of experienced lawyers providing legal advice and expertise across the FMA. The team was a finalist for ILANZ Public Sector In-house Team of the Year 2026 – it’s supportive, collaborative and welcoming!

This is a highly influential role, combining people leadership, legal expertise and strategic thinking. You'll oversee the delivery of pragmatic, high-quality legal advice that supports the FMA's regulatory functions, while ensuring your team is well supported, engaged and positioned to deliver excellent outcomes.

You'll work closely with leaders and subject matter experts from across the organisation, providing guidance on complex legal and regulatory matters, managing legal risk, and contributing to key projects and initiatives. You'll also build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including law firms, regulators and industry participants.

Your mahi will include, but not be limited to:

• Leading, coaching and developing a high-performing team of lawyers.
• Providing pragmatic legal advice across a broad range of financial services and regulatory matters.
• Overseeing the allocation and delivery of legal work to support organisational priorities.
• Acting as an escalation point for significant legal issues and risks.
• Leading individual exemptions, designations and other complex legal matters.
• Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Contributing to the strategic direction and ongoing success of the Legal team and wider FMA.

He kōrero mōu | About you   

We're looking for an experienced legal leader who brings strong judgement, a collaborative approach and the ability to navigate complex issues with confidence.

Ideally you’ll have experience in financial markets, financial services, regulatory or commercial law, alongside a proven track record of leading, mentoring or developing people. Most importantly, you'll be comfortable building trusted relationships, balancing competing priorities, and translating complex legal issues into practical advice that supports sound decision-making.

You'll also bring:

• Excellent judgement and the ability to make decisions in complex and evolving environments.
• Outstanding communication, stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• A collaborative leadership style and commitment to fostering an inclusive, high-performing team culture.
• The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery and operational oversight.

Most importantly, you'll be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a fair, efficient and transparent financial sector that delivers better outcomes for New Zealanders.

Ngā painga | What we offer   

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits, including:     

• 4% KiwiSaver employer contribution   

• Health and life insurance cover   

• Paid leave over the Christmas period     

• The ability to swap public holidays for days that hold personal significance     

• Exceptional learning and development opportunities, including technical training and leadership programmes 

At the FMA, we’re committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. We also offer a range of wellness and social activities to support both personal and professional wellbeing and help our people genuinely connect with one another.     

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply   

If this sounds like your next opportunity, then please apply today. Applications close Sunday 11 October at 5pm.

If you require additional support with your application, please let us know so you are best placed to complete this with ease.