Workflow Manager at NZ Defence Force, Flexible Location

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

As the Workflow Manager within the Defence Shared Services Group (DSSG), you'll lead the nationwide workflow system (Whakarato) that ensures Defence personnel can easily access the services they need — anytime, anywhere.

You will oversee the nationwide workflow queues, lead two Central Services Workflow Advisors, and ensure service requests flow efficiently and consistently across the motu. You'll analyse performance data, support decision‑making, working closely with Manager Local Services, Manager National Services, Manager Solutions and Advice and enabling your Workflow Advisors to work closely with Customer Service Managers to address capacity imbalances.

A key part of this role involves managing the relationship between DSSG, Information Command (our IT department) and our system support vendor. You'll oversee service level agreements, champion continuous improvement, and lead enhancements to systems and processes to deliver a smooth, reliable user experience for our people. This is a strategic leadership role with high visibility across NZDF and a direct impact on service delivery and operational readiness.

Please note: The role is offered with flexible working location options; however, you must be based near an NZDF camp or base (Devonport, Whenuapai, Palmerston North, Wellington region, or Christchurch). The position also requires travel across the motu, including being away from home for several days at a time.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

You'll thrive in this role if you excel in fast‑moving environments, enjoy solving complex workflow challenges, can handle ambiguity and can connect the dots across an organisation undergoing transformation.

To succeed, you will bring:

• Experience working with workflow applications and managing enterprise systems, ideally two to three years' experience.
• Knowledge of workflow management, workforce planning, or project management.
• Experience leading small teams with a focus on performance, trust, and development.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to influence at all levels.
• Proven analytical capability, with the ability to interpret data and drive improvement.
• A structured, systematic approach with excellent organisational skills.
• Comfort operating in a changing environment and balancing competing priorities.
• Ability to work outside normal hours when required, and occasional domestic travel.
• A Class 1 Full Driver's Licence.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning – safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Monday 16 March 2026.

Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here's what you need to know:

Higher Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.
• You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.