Chief Economist at NZ Commerce Commission, Wellington or Auckland

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Newly created position to shape the future of economics at the Commission
• Joining of the current Economic branches into one function
• Exceptional leadership skills required

The Commerce Commission is New Zealand's competition, consumer, consumer credit and economic regulatory agency. It plays a crucial role in ensuring New Zealand's markets are competitive, consumers and businesses are well informed, and sectors with little or no competition are appropriately regulated.

The Commission is an independent Crown entity responsible for enforcing laws relating to competition, fair trading, and consumer credit contracts. It also has regulatory responsibilities in relation to the electricity, gas, telecommunications, fibre, fuel, dairy, airport and grocery sectors.

This is an exciting and unique opportunity for a talented leader and technical expert to lead, develop and be accountable for the overall delivery of economics at the Commission.

As a senior member of the organisation, you will participate in Senior Leadership Team meetings, regularly engage with the Board and lead conversations on important strategic economic matters. You will report to the General Manager, Strategy, Governance and Engagement, where you will be well connected to senior leaders and governance (Board and SLT), and also have a dotted line of access to the Chief Executive.

As the Chief Economist you would take on the role of Head of Economics Profession where you will be accountable for driving professional practice development and setting quality standards, supported by your leadership team of three Directors of Economics.

Your superior and proven leadership skills, alongside an absolute determination to contribute at all levels will ensure the new Economics function is a success.

To be considered for this position, your knowledge and experience will include:

• being a senior leader who holds mana (respect), with a track record of delivery through inspiring a focused and committed team
• an in-depth understanding of competition and/or regulatory economics
• expertise in the development and implementation of Economic functions and strategies
• a track record of collaboration and building strong stakeholder relationships

This is a critical senior role in the Commission and provides the opportunity for a strategic economist to play a key role in shaping the future of economics within the Commission to provide long-term benefits for New Zealanders.

To learn more about this role, please read the position description.

Application Process

Watermark Search International is managing this recruitment process and will be available from 9 January 2023 for questions and enquiries. By way of application please send us your CV and cover letter which addresses your claims for the role quoting Ref No 70005 to Watermark Search International. Email: search@watermarksearch.com.au Tel: (02) 9233 1200. Closing date: 17 February 2023. Please apply via this email address and not through the Apply for this Job button.