Manager, Aviation Security (Upper North)

New Zealand Government; Auckland; On-site; NZD 137,000 - 168,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5 weeks annual leave

Sick leave from day one

KiwiSaver matching up to 4%

Vision assistance

Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is recruiting a Manager, Aviation Security (Upper North) based at Auckland Airport. You will provide strategic and operational leadership for aviation security, reporting to the Regional Head, and ensure delivery of world‑class security services and a safe passenger experience.

You will lead through experienced operational leaders, drive performance, manage budgets, and build strong stakeholder relationships across airports and government partners.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading large operational teams and improving security outcomes.
• Strong ability to engage with diverse partners including airports and government agencies.
• Track record in strategic planning, budgeting, and workforce development.

Responsibilities

• Lead aviation security operations at Auckland Airport ensuring compliance and service excellence.
• Drive performance, continuous improvement and business continuity across the Upper North region.
• Oversee resource planning, budgeting, stakeholder engagement and workforce development.

Skills

Operational leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic planning

Budget management

Decision making under pressure

Job description

The Civil Aviation Authority and the Aviation Security Service offer distinctively different career opportunities and embrace diverse talent. All jobs at the Authority contribute to ensuring safe and secure skies to help New Zealand fly.The Civil Aviation Authority is the regulatory arm of our organisation and the Aviation Security Service is the nationwide provider for aviation security.Manager, Aviation Security (Upper North)Auckland AirportAt the Civil Aviation Authority, we don't just keep New Zealand's skies safe and secure, we help shape the future of aviation.Lead aviation security operations at New Zealand's busiest airport and help deliver a safe, secure, and positive passenger experience.The opportunity to work with a highly experienced leadership team focused on operational excellence and continuous improvement.A senior leadership role with significant influence over Auckland Airport operations and national aviation security outcomes.About the roleAs Manager, Aviation Security (Upper North), you will provide strategic and operational leadership for Aviation Security operations at Auckland Airport. Reporting to the Regional Head of Aviation Security (Upper North), you'll be responsible for ensuring the delivery of world-class aviation security services while supporting a responsive and high-quality passenger experience.Leading through a team of experienced operational leaders, you'll oversee operational performance, resource planning, business continuity, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement initiatives across a complex and dynamic environment. As a member of the Aviation Security Leadership Team, you'll contribute to organisational strategy, operational planning, and the ongoing development of a high-performing workforce.Key Responsibilities:Lead the delivery of aviation security operations, ensuring compliance with legislative, regulatory, and operational requirements.Drive operational performance, continuous improvement, and service excellence across Auckland Airport operations.Contribute to strategic planning, business continuity planning, workforce planning, and budgeting activities.Build and maintain strong relationships with airports, government agencies, industry partners, and internal stakeholders.Lead, coach, and develop leaders to build an engaged, capable, and high-performing operational workforce.Key requirements:Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Security Clearance. Please use this online tool to self-check your eligibility: https://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/guidance/getting-a-national-security-clearance/eligibility-toolHold a full, clean New Zealand Driver LicenceWillingness to participate in emergency response, special operations and operational activities when requiredAvailability to support airport operations in a dynamic 24/7 operational environment as neededThe salary band for this role is $136,939 to $168,191. Starting salaries are based on the knowledge, skills, and experience the successful candidate brings to the role, as well as internal relativities.For more information on the role, please view the position description.What You'll BringIf you're a seasoned operational leader who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments and can confidently balance strategic priorities with operational delivery, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to New Zealand's aviation security system.To succeed in this role, you'll demonstrate:Significant experience leading large operational teams through leaders.A proven track record of delivering operational performance, continuous improvement, and customer-focused outcomes.Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills, with the ability to influence across a diverse range of internal and external partners.Experience leading organisational change and developing high-performing teams.Strong financial and commercial acumen, including experience managing operational budgets and resources.Sound judgement, resilience, and the ability to make decisions in complex operational environments.About usThe Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is New Zealand's aviation safety and security regulator. We play a critical role in protecting the travelling public, supporting the aviation sector, and strengthening New Zealand's international reputation.Our vision is simple and powerful: A safe and secure aviation system, so people are safe, and feel safe when they fly.Our values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Transparency, and Collaboration guide everything we do. We're committed to diversity, inclusion, and creating a workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to contribute.Why Join us?5 weeks annual leave, with an additional 2 days after five years of continuous serviceSick leave entitlements from day oneTen days domestic leave annuallyMatching KiwiSaver contributions up to 4%Vision assistanceFlu vaccinationsEmployee Assistance ProgrammeReady to Apply?If you're an experienced leader who can inspire high-performing teams, drive operational excellence, and build trusted relationships across a complex stakeholder environment, we'd love to hear from you.Apply directly by completing the online application form (please note emailed applications will not be considered). Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your leadership experience and skills relate to this role.We want to ensure accessibility needs are well supported, so the recruitment process is fair and equitable for all. Please let us know if there is any support that we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is fully accessible to you.If you have any questions about the role or application process, contact Matt Parker on [e-mail] close: Sunday, 8 November 2026 (11:59 pm)Please be aware that we may start shortlisting as applications come in. We encourage early applications, as the advertisement may close sooner than stated.