Mō tēnei tūranga mahi About this role Lead major strategic regulatory programmes shaping Aotearoa's transport system Senior leadership role influencing change across government and industry Drive transformation to deliver a safe, efficient and effective land transport regulatory system Te Whiwhinga mahi The opportunity As the Head of Regulatory Strategic Programmes, you will lead the design and delivery of complex, large'scale programmes that ensure regulatory change in Aotearoa is delivered at the right time and in the right way-lifting performance, strengthening regulatory outcomes, and delivering tangible benefits for the public. You will oversee major strategic initiatives that establish new services or significantly improve how we regulate. You will also lead programme and project delivery teams, ensuring they are equipped to deliver at pace and to a high standard. By working in partnership with senior leaders across NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, industry, iwi, local government, and central government, you will shape long'term change and provide strategic clarity, governance assurance, and delivery excellence. Your key responsibilities will include: Providing strategic leadership and direction for Regulatory Strategic Programmes. Maintaining programme and portfolio oversight, including prioritisation, financial discipline, risk and assurance frameworks, and benefits realisation. Developing and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships across government, industry and Māori. Building and coaching high'performing programme delivery teams. Representing NZTA at senior levels and ensuring effective communication across governance forums. Leading the development of an integrated regulatory change story and vision.You can read more in the. Ko koe tēnei About you You will bring significant experience delivering large and complex strategic programmes, with strong commercial and government acumen. You are a strategic thinker, an influential leader, and someone who can operate confidently in ambiguity, ensuring clarity of direction and disciplined execution. To be successful in this role, you will bring: Extensive experience leading complex strategic programme delivery. Strong understanding of the machinery of government; relationships with key agencies advantageous. Proven ability to influence, engage and partner with senior stakeholders across sectors. Experience in regulatory or land transport environments is highly desirable. Demonstrated ability to lead through change, build high'performing teams and enable capability uplift. Strong analytical, planning, governance and financial management skills. Excellent communication and relationship'building skills.You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain understanding of, Te Ao Māori, tikanga Māori, Te Reo Māori, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public sector. Te Rōpū Waeture, Regulatory exists to ensure the land transport system is safe and effective for all. Our purpose is to provide oversight of regulatory interventions, enable responsive regulation, and ensure effective compliance systems that support safe access for people, devices and networks. We are a team committed to collaboration, innovation and transformation-working across NZTA and alongside partners to deliver a regulatory system that supports a thriving Aotearoa. Ka whiwhi koe i te aha What you will get in return At NZTA, you'll be part of a purpose'driven organisation shaping the future of Aotearoa's transport system. We offer: A competitive salary and benefits package Flexible working arrangements Five weeks annual leave Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance A culture that values people, inclusion and wellbeingLearn more about our benefits. Me pēhea te tuku tono How to apply Please click Apply to upload your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for this role. Rā Katinga Applications close: 22 February 2026For further information, email: be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.NZTA Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time. Location: Canterbury