Principal Advisor Quality System

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working options

Competitive salary package

5 weeks annual leave

Job summary

NZTA | Waka Kotahi is seeking a capable leader to develop and continuously improve the regulatory Quality Management System, ensuring quality frameworks support consistent regulatory delivery across Aotearoa. Wellington/Auckland/Christchurch based, with flexible working options.

You will translate strategy into practical solutions, embed assurance mechanisms, analyse quality data, and provide evidence-based advice to support regulatory performance.

Qualifications

• Experience designing and implementing quality systems in complex contexts.
• Strong ability to engage and influence across technical and operational teams.
• Proven track record in continuous improvement and data-informed decision making.
• Knowledge of Te Ao Maori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and evolve NZTA's regulatory Quality Management System.
• Develop quality frameworks, standards and guidance for consistent practice.
• Embed assurance, monitoring and feedback to drive quality improvements.
• Analyze quality data to identify risks, trends and opportunities.
• Provide evidence-based advice to support regulatory performance.
• Partner across the business to integrate quality into processes and digital solutions.
• Build relationships across NZTA and the regulatory sector to promote excellence.

Skills

Quality systems design

Stakeholder engagement

Influence and leadership

Coaching and mentoring

Critical thinking and research

Legislation interpretation

Continuous improvement

Te Tiriti o Waitangi awareness

Job description

Lead and evolve NZTA's regulatory Quality Management System, enabling consistent, high-quality regulatory deliveryDrive quality and assurance excellence through risk-based frameworks, standards and continuous improvementProvide trusted expert leadership, influencing stakeholders and championing regulatory best practice across NZTAWellington/Auckland/ChristchurchTe Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunityIn 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.In this role you will:Lead and evolve NZTA's regulatory Quality Management SystemDevelop quality frameworks, standards and guidance that support consistent regulatory practiceEmbed assurance, monitoring and feedback mechanisms that drive quality and continuous improvementAnalyse quality data and assurance insights to identify risks, trends and improvement opportunitiesProvide evidence-based advice that supports informed decision-making and regulatory performancePartner 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 practiceYou will find out more about the role here: Position DescriptionKo koe tenei | About youOur ideal candidate will have some or all of the following:Practical and proven experience in designing and implementing quality systems, with the ability to apply them pragmatically and proportionately in complex, real-world contextStrong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, you will be able to collaborate across technical and operational teamsDemonstrated ability to influence and lead, including coaching and mentoring capabilityWell-developed critical thinking, research, and ability to interpret and apply legislationCommitment to continuous improvement, learning and developmentYou will also demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to build understanding of Te Ao Maori, tikanga, and theprinciples of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in the public sector.Ko wai matou | About usNZTA is responsible for delivering a safe, efficient and effective land transport system for Aotearoa.Te Ropu 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 continuouslyimproving regulatory frameworks that are evidence based, proportionate, and responsive to the needs of thesector.Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in returnWe care about our people and invest in supporting our staff at NZTA. If you join us, you can expect:A supportive working environmentFlexible working optionsA competitive salary package, aligned with your skills and experience5 weeks annual leave and other great benefits.Ready to take the next step in your career? We'd love to hear from youMe pehea te tuku tono | How to applyApply today by including a cover letter detailing why you are the ideal candidate for this role and attach along with your CV.Ra Katinga | Applications close:23 October 2026For further information, email: [e-mail] 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.