Principal Advisor Quality System

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi; Wellington; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Supportive environment

Flexible working options

Competitive salary package

5 weeks annual leave

Job summary

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi in Wellington is seeking a fixed-term specialist to lead the development and continuous improvement of the regulatory Quality Management System, ensuring quality frameworks and guidance support consistent regulatory delivery.

You will translate strategy into practical solutions that align with modern regulatory principles and drive a risk-based approach to quality management, strengthening assurance, performance and continuous improvement across the regulatory

Qualifications

• Practical and proven experience in designing and implementing quality systems, with the ability to apply them pragmatically and proportionately in complex, real-world context.
• Ability to translate strategy into practical, scalable quality solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead and evolve NZTA’s regulatory Quality Management System.
• Develop quality frameworks, standards and guidance that support consistent regulatory practice.
• Embed assurance, monitoring and feedback mechanisms that drive quality and continuous improvement.
• Analyse quality data and assurance insights to identify risks, trends and improvement opportunities.
• Provide evidence-based advice that supports informed decision-making and regulatory performance.
• Partner across the business to integrate quality into processes, capability initiatives and digital solutions.
• Build strong relationships across NZTA and the wider regulatory sector to promote regulatory excellence and best practice.

Skills

Quality systems design

Stakeholder engagement

Influence and leadership

Critical thinking

Continuous improvement

Job description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

In this 12 month fixed term role you will lead the development and continuous improvement of NZTA’s regulatory Quality Management System, ensuring quality frameworks and guidance support consistent, effective regulatory delivery.

You’ll translate strategy into practical solutions that align with modern regulatory principles and organisational priorities and drive a risk-based, approach to quality management, strengthening assurance, performance and continuous improvement across the regulatory system.

Working across the organisation, you’ll ensure quality practices remain effective, fit-for-purpose and responsive to change.

• Lead and evolve NZTA’s regulatory Quality Management System
• Develop quality frameworks, standards and guidance that support consistent regulatory practice
• Embed assurance, monitoring and feedback mechanisms that drive quality and continuous improvement
• Analyse quality data and assurance insights to identify risks, trends and improvement opportunities
• Provide evidence-based advice that supports informed decision-making and regulatory performance
• Partner across the business to integrate quality into processes, capability initiatives and digital solutions.
• Build strong relationships across NZTA and the wider regulatory sector to promote regulatory excellence and best practice.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

• Practical and proven experience in designing and implementing quality systems, with the ability to apply them pragmatically and proportionately in complex, real‑world context
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, you will be able to collaborate across technical and operational teams
• Demonstrated ability to influence and lead, including coaching and mentoring capability
• Well‑developed critical thinking, research, and ability to interpret and apply legislation
• Commitment to continuous improvement, learning and development.

You will also demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to build understanding of Te Ao Māori, tikanga, and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in the public sector.

Ko wai mātou | About us

NZTA is responsible for delivering a safe, efficient and effective land transport system for Aotearoa.

Te Rōpū Waeture – Regulatory plays a critical role as the lead regulator for land transport – taking a system wide, risk‑based approach to improving safety outcomes and reducing harm. This includes designing and continuously improving regulatory frameworks that are evidence based, proportionate, and responsive to the needs of the sector.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return

• A supportive working environment
• Flexible working options
• A competitive salary package, aligned with your skills and experience
• 5 weeks annual leave and other great benefits.

Rā Katinga | Applications close

23 October 2026

For further information, email: [e-mail]

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

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.