Executive Leader at Te Kawa Mataaho | Public Service Commission, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

EXECUTIVE LEADER

The Public Service Commission is advertising four new executive leader roles on behalf of the Ministry of Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport, which is currently in its establishment phase.

About the Ministry

The Ministry of Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT) is a new Ministry that will have a leading role in tackling many of New Zealand's major economic and environmental challenges, working to unlock the potential of our cities and regions to drive economic growth, resilience and quality of life.

Taking a long-term view across the environment, transport, housing, urban development, infrastructure and investment, the Ministry will work alongside local government as the central point of engagement on land and resource use.

Through integrated investment and policy advice, modern market and regulatory settings, and strong strategic partnerships and delivery, the Ministry will help deliver affordable and healthy housing, connected communities, high impact infrastructure, and a resilient environment for New Zealanders.

The roles

We are looking for executive leaders for MCERT's four new business groups:

• System Performance
• Policy
• Delivery
• Enabling Services

About the roles:

Reporting to the Chief Executive, these senior system leader roles will drive and deliver outcomes across a complex, multi-sector system including housing, transport, local government, urban development, and the environment.

As MCERT's executive leadership team, you will collectively shape and deliver strategic direction and priorities, driving integration, organisational performance, and change. These roles will influence major system reform and help shape New Zealand's future.

We are keen to hear from experienced senior system leaders who can lead complex work that will impact millions of New Zealanders. As an MCERT Executive Leader you will develop and lead system‑level and organisational strategy, build and sustain a high‑performing workforce, develop future leaders, and attract and retain exceptional talent.

About You

Across all Executive Leadership roles, we seek experienced and influential system leaders who can demonstrate a strong suite of leadership capabilities.

You bring senior system level leadership experience and the ability to build trust with Ministers, partners, and colleagues. You excel at shaping long-term strategy and translating it into clear, practical programmes of work, bringing clarity to complex, multi‑sector environments. You authentically integrate Māori perspectives and Te Tiriti obligations into your work.

You will have sharp executive judgement, strong financial and commercial acumen, and a future‑focused mindset.

The individual role descriptions are attached. They outline the specific responsibilities and capabilities MCERT seeks for each position.

Security Clearance Requirements

To be appointed to this position, you must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at Secret or higher. Ordinarily, to obtain this level of clearance you must have sufficient checkable background in countries where meaningful and reliable checks can be undertaken. Where requisite checks are unable to be made, your application may not be able to be progressed.

Use this online tool (http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool) to self-check your eligibility for a clearance. Please note that this tool is indicative only, and initiation of a formal security clearance will be undertaken prior to any appointment. 

If you are not a New Zealand citizen, you must hold current eligibility to work in New Zealand. Please refer to the New Zealand Immigration Service for further information.

How to apply

Please specify in your cover letter which of these Executive Leader roles you wish to apply for:

• System Performance
• Policy
• Delivery
• Enabling Services

All applications must be made online by the individual. You will need a RealMe account to apply. We do not accept approaches from agencies or third parties.

Applications close at 11.59pm, Sunday 12^th April 2026.

If you have any questions about these roles, please contact Nicky Stallworthy, Principal Advisor, Recruitment at Nicola.Stallworthy@publicservice.govt.nz

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