Senior Aviation Regulatory Policy Advisor

Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand; Wellington; On-site; NZD 116,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand is seeking a Senior Advisor, Regulatory Policy to lead policy work in the Rules Update Programme, guiding modernisation of the Civil Aviation Rules in collaboration with technical specialists, legal advisors, and industry stakeholders.

You will deliver policy advice, design regulatory interventions, and engage with international partners, ensuring New Zealand's aviation framework remains clear, future-focused, and aligned with international standards.

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.
• 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.

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

Project leadership

Analytical thinking

Written communication

Decision making

Job description

The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand is seeking a Senior Advisor, Regulatory Policy to lead policy work in the Rules Update Programme, guiding modernisation of the Civil Aviation Rules in collaboration with technical specialists, legal advisors, and industry stakeholders.

You will deliver policy advice, design regulatory interventions, and engage with international partners, ensuring New Zealand's aviation framework remains clear, future-focused, and aligned with international standards.