Job Description

About Us | Mō mātou

The Department of Internal Affairs supports the Inquiry to operate independently, impartially and fairly, while ensuring it is well-managed and connected to the wider public service. Our purpose is to serve and connect people, communities and government to build a safe, prosperous and respected nation.

We are an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion. We recognise a diverse workforce contributes to better business outcomes. We are committed to creating a workplace where all employees have equal access.

The role | Te tūnga

The Government Inquiry into the Tauranga Fatal Landslides has been established to examine the causes and circumstances of the landslides and to provide independent findings and recommendations to Government. The Inquiry is now moving into its delivery phase, and we are seeking an experienced Executive Director to take it through to completion.

The Executive Director is responsible for driving delivery of the Inquiry’s work programme, enabling the Inquiry to meet its Terms of Reference and report to Government on time and within budget.

Employed by the Department of Internal Affairs, you will work directly with the Inquiry’s Chair and Members and Counsel Assist to support their independent decision-making, while ensuring strong alignment with public sector expectations and processes.

You will lead the Secretariat, oversee day-to-day operations, and ensure the Inquiry is positioned to successfully deliver its final report and transition through an orderly and effective close-down.

This role builds on the work of the establishment Executive Director and requires a seasoned public sector leader who can maintain momentum, provide strategic oversight, and ensure a disciplined and effective close-out.

What you bring | Nōu te rourou

We are seeking a senior public sector leader who brings:

• Proven experience working effectively with Ministers and navigating complex authorising environments
• Strong judgement, political awareness and the ability to operate credibly at the centre of government
• Demonstrated success delivering complex programmes or inquiries to tight timelines and within budget
• Experience working within, or alongside, legal or statutory frameworks (for example, inquiries or other formal processes)
• Exceptional relationship management and influencing skills across diverse stakeholders
• Experience leading teams through delivery phases and organisational transition or close-down
• The ability to provide clear, pragmatic advice complex and sensitive situations
• Familiarity with public sector frameworks, accountability settings, and report delivery to Government

You will need to be available to start in early July 2026. This is a fixed-term role until 31 January 2027.

Interviews may start prior to the closing date.

For you | Mōu

At the Department of Internal Affairs, we are committed to offering a collaborative and innovative culture where your perspective and ideas will be welcomed. We want our people to thrive within a culture of best practice, while being able to set and achieve goals and being encouraged to challenge the status quo.

To learn more about the diverse, important mahi we do at the Department and see why we're a great place to work check out our website https://www.dia.govt.nz/

Benefits - About Internal Affairs - Careers with us - Benefits - dia.govt.nz

To review the full job description, please click here.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono

We are unable to accept applications via email. Please click the apply button to submit your application.

We're committed to ensuring our application process is accessible to everyone. Please reach out to our recruitment team below if there is any support we can provide to ensure the process is accessible to you.

Applications for this role close 5pm, Wednesday, 10th June. Please also note that you must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this role.

If you have any questions please e-mail General Manager Commissions, Gina Smith.