Business and Governance Manager at NZ Defence Force, Auckland

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The Defence Technology Accelerator (Def TA) is a newly established NZDF function that connects Defence with industry, academia and government partners to identify, assess and advance innovative technologies with military application.

Def TA helps accelerate the pathway from innovation to operational advantage, providing insights that inform future capability decisions while supporting the growth of New Zealand's defence innovation ecosystem. 

In this pivotal role, you will be the operational backbone of a newly established organisation, helping to develop and seamlessly run business operations, governance and secretariat support, financial management, compliance, and information management functions.

Working closely with the Director and Deputy Director, you will anticipate organisational needs, provide proactive solutions, and ensure the Def TA operates efficiently, professionally, and in line with NZDF requirements.

This is a unique opportunity to influence the growth of a developing organisation while delivering operational excellence in a dynamic and evolving environment.

The salary for this role will be around $110,000, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution.  The role will be based in Auckland Central.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

This role is ideal for someone who thrives on creating order, developing and improving processes, and providing the governance and operational support that enables your new team to perform at their best.

To succeed in this role, you'll bring:

• Proven experience in business support, office management, executive coordination, or governance roles within a complex organisation.
• Strong governance and secretariat expertise, including coordinating meetings, managing agendas, preparing papers, and taking minutes.
• Sound financial management skills, with experience in budget monitoring, invoice processing, cost centre management, and reporting.
• Experience managing information, records, and document control systems, with a strong understanding of information governance principles.
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities, work independently, and deliver high-quality outcomes in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to build effective relationships across all levels of an organisation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and document management systems.
• Knowledge of public sector compliance requirements, including information privacy, official information, security, and health and safety obligations.
• Experience with AI-enabled tools and digital productivity platforms, and a commitment to continuous improvement (desirable).
• A relevant tertiary qualification in business, public administration, or equivalent practical experience.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

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 Tuesday 6 October 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.
• 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.