Strategic Planning & Development Improvement Leader

New Zealand Transport Agency; Auckland; On-site; NZD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

New Zealand Transport Agency is seeking a Planning & Development Improvement Lead to shape how major transport projects are planned, developed and delivered. You will drive front-end project lifecycle improvements, leverage international best practice, and lead cross‑functional initiatives across NZTA and the wider sector.

You’ll collaborate with senior leaders, project teams, suppliers, and industry partners to raise capability, embed data and digital tools, and achieve consistent, high-quality

Qualifications

• Significant experience delivering large, complex transport infrastructure projects.
• Experience leading business improvement, transformation, or change initiatives.
• Strong programme or project leadership capabilities.
• Ability to influence and bring people together across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Understanding of emerging industry trends, international best practice, and digital innovation.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to translate complex ideas into practical solutions.

Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvement across the front end of the project lifecycle.
• Lead strategic improvement initiatives to enhance consistency, quality and effectiveness of development.
• Champion the use of data, digital tools, and change management practices to embed lasting improvements.
• Collaborate with senior leaders, project teams, suppliers and industry partners to shape national approaches to infrastructure planning and development.

Skills

Large-scale delivery

Change management

Leadership

Stakeholder influence

Industry trends & digital

Communication

Job description

New Zealand Transport Agency is seeking a Planning & Development Improvement Lead to shape how major transport projects are planned, developed and delivered. You will drive front-end project lifecycle improvements, leverage international best practice, and lead cross‑functional initiatives across NZTA and the wider sector.

You’ll collaborate with senior leaders, project teams, suppliers, and industry partners to raise capability, embed data and digital tools, and achieve consistent, high-quality