Senior Advisor, Regulatory Policy -Fixed Term, Rules Update Programme

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 116,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

The Civil Aviation Authority and the Aviation Security Service offer distinctive career opportunities within the New Zealand Government, shaping regulatory policy for aviation. As Senior Advisor, Regulatory Policy, you will lead policy work to modernise the Rules, collaborating with technical specialists, legal advisors, and industry stakeholders to deliver clear, future-focused regulatory solutions.

You will prepare briefs for senior leaders and Ministers, engage widely with industry and

Qualifications

• Experience developing policy within a regulatory environment.
• Strong understanding of government decision-making processes.
• Ability to analyse complex information and provide sound recommendations.
• Excellent written communication skills and attention to detail.
• Confidence presenting advice to senior decision-makers.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
• Experience leading projects and delivering outcomes in complex environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of evidence-based regulatory policy advice.
• Drive policy projects that support the modernisation of aviation rules.
• Develop regulatory interventions that strengthen aviation safety outcomes.
• Support the design and implementation of fit-for-purpose regulatory frameworks.
• Prepare high-quality briefings and advice for senior leaders and Ministers.
• Engage with industry, government agencies, and international stakeholders.
• Lead consultation activities and support sector-wide engagement processes.
• Analyse complex issues and identify practical policy solutions.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to achieve programme outcomes.

Skills

Regulatory policy

Stakeholder engagement

Policy development

Regulatory analysis

Written communication

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.

About the Role

As a Senior Advisor, Regulatory Policy in the Rules Update Programme, you'll help shape the future of New Zealand's aviation system by leading regulatory policy work that supports the modernisation of the Civil Aviation Rules. Working closely with technical specialists, operational experts, legal advisors, and industry stakeholders, you'll deliver policy advice and regulatory solutions that ensure New Zealand's aviation framework remains clear, effective, future-focused, and aligned with international standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of evidence-based regulatory policy advice.
• Drive policy projects that support the modernisation of aviation rules.
• Develop regulatory interventions that strengthen aviation safety outcomes.
• Support the design and implementation of fit-for-purpose regulatory frameworks.
• Prepare high-quality briefings and advice for senior leaders and Ministers.
• Engage with industry, government agencies, and international stakeholders.
• Lead consultation activities and support sector-wide engagement processes.
• Analyse complex issues and identify practical policy solutions.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to achieve programme outcomes.

The salary range for this role is $115,536 to $141,751. Starting salaries are based on 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. This is an 18-month fixed term contract.

What You'll Bring

You’ll be a confident policy professional who enjoys working on complex regulatory issues and turning analysis into practical, impactful outcomes.

You’ll thrive in a collaborative environment, build strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, and bring a strategic approach to policy development and implementation.

To succeed in this role you’ll demonstrate:

• Experience developing policy within a regulatory environment.
• Strong understanding of government decision-making processes.
• Ability to analyse complex information and provide sound recommendations.
• Excellent written communication skills and attention to detail.
• Confidence presenting advice to senior decision-makers.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
• Ability to influence and build credibility across diverse groups.
• Experience leading projects and delivering outcomes in complex environments.
• Commitment to collaboration and knowledge sharing with colleagues.
• Sound judgement, initiative, and a proactive approach to problem solving.

About Us

The 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 fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment where everyone feels respected, safe, and valued. Our people are central to our success.

Why Join Us?

• Work that directly contributes to public and sector safety
• A collaborative and supportive environment
• Opportunities to shape national guidance frameworks
• A diverse and inclusive workplace that values your expertise and perspective

Applications close: Tuesday 15 September 2026