Cloud and Integration Platform Lead

• Lead the strategy, architecture, and delivery of cloud and integration platforms for a future-focused transport system.
• Drive agile, cross-functional squads to build robust, secure, and cost-effective platform capabilities.
• Enable digital transformation and data-driven decision making across NZTA
• Location: Wellington or Auckland

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

As the Cloud and Integration Platform Lead, you are accountable for the strategy, architecture, delivery, operations, cost, and risk of the cloud and integration platforms that enable Digital products and data flows across NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA). You will lead cross-functional squads using Agile ways of working to build and run robust, secure, cost-effective platform capabilities (e.g., landing zones, container & PaaS services, API management, iPaaS/ESB, messaging and eventing). You will ensure alignment to the Digital Strategy, Digital Governance, Architecture principles and patterns, and continuously improve platform health, reliability, security, and unit economics.

The key responsibilities of the role will see you:

• Define and publish the Cloud & Integration Platform vision, architecture, and multi-year roadmap.
• Assess market trends and recommend technology adoption, deprecation, or consolidation.
• Lead squads to build, operate, and improve platform services using DevOps and SRE practices.
• Implement automation-first practices (IaC, CI/CD, policy-as-code) and shift-left security.
• Enable self-service onboarding and consumption of platform capabilities.
• Maintain platform compliance with Waka Kotahi standards and NZ Government policies.
• Own and manage platform budgets and FinOps practices.
• Manage vendor relationships and contract outcomes for cloud and integration services.
• Embed governance and Agile ways of working across squads and stakeholders.
• Lead and develop a high-performing platform team, fostering a culture of inclusion, learning, and continuous improvement.

You will find out more about the role here: Position Description.

Ko koe tenei | About you

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Strong expertise in cloud architecture, integration patterns, and platform engineering.
• Proven experience leading squads using DevOps and SRE practices for high availability and resilience.
• Hands-on experience with automation-first delivery (IaC, CI/CD, policy-as-code) and shift-left security.
• Solid understanding of NZ Government security standards, identity and access management, and risk frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to manage platform budgets, apply FinOps principles, and optimize cloud consumption.
• Skilled in vendor management, governance practices, and Agile ways of working.
• Track record of building and developing high-performing technical teams.
• 10+ years in technology leadership roles, with significant experience in cloud and integration platforms.

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Maori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Maori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector.

Mo matou | About Us

Te Aukaha Digital strengthens NZTA through supporting our people and delivering future-focused solutions. We enable digital change and provide quality data, information, and security services. Our purpose is to accelerate digital capability for a more safe, efficient, and sustainable transport system. The Chief Technology Office (CTO) is a strategic business enabler, accountable for delivering the digital skills, capabilities, platforms, and leadership required to support the agency's operational performance, regulatory responsibilities, and future transport vision.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return

At NZTA, you'll join a team that values your expertise and supports your professional growth. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, flexible working arrangements, and a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion. Along with our other benefits, we also have 5 weeks annual leave and an Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance scheme available for all permanent employees.

Ready to take the next step in your career? We'd love to hear from you. Apply today and join our team who is going places.

Me pehea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Ra Katinga | Applications close:

30 November 2025

For further information, email:

To 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.