Senior Advisor, Regulatory Policy

• Do you have regulatory policy development experience and are looking for your next challenge?
• Join a supportive and high-performing team with a diverse and interesting work programme
• Wellington CBD location

At the Civil Aviation Authority, we don't just keep New Zealand's skies safe and secure, we help shape the future of aviation. 

As the industry evolves, so do we, through innovative technology, new ways of working, and a team of people who are passionate about what they do. 

Now's the time to get on board. We're building a forward-thinking, modern CAA, and we need people who want their work to matter. People who thrive on challenges, value collaboration, and want to make a positive impact every day. 

About the role

As a Senior Advisor, Regulatory Policy, you'll play a key role in shaping New Zealand's Civil Aviation regulatory frameworks. You'll provide high-quality, well-researched advice to support effective regulatory outcomes and to ensure our Civil Aviation Rules remain fit for purpose.

You'll also lead and deliver projects within the unit's business plan, track progress and results, and get involved in a diverse range of work contributing to the safety and security of the aviation system.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the development of high-quality, evidence-based policy advice on a broad range of aviation regulatory issues.
• Support the development, review, and implementation of Civil Aviation Rules and other regulatory interventions to ensure the aviation system remains safe, effective, and internationally aligned.
• Manage and deliver complex policy and regulatory projects, ensuring strong planning, coordination, risk management, and meaningful engagement with stakeholders.
• Provide clear, strategic advice and well-reasoned briefings to senior leaders, the Ministry of Transport, and the Minister on key policy issues and initiatives.
• Build and maintain productive relationships with government agencies, industry partners, and international counterparts.
• Represent the CAA in national and international forums, coordinating participation in overseas engagements, conferences, and consultations.
• Lead and contribute to the development of consultation and discussion documents, guiding informed input from internal and external stakeholders.
• Mentor and support policy staff, sharing expertise, promoting best practice, and contributing to the ongoing capability and professional development of the team.

Some national and international travel may be required. The role is based at our National Office in Wellington.

The salary band for this position starts at $115,536 to a maximum of $141,751. Starting salaries are be based on knowledge, skills and experience the successful candidate brings to the role, as well as internal relativities.

What You Will Bring

You will have experience in policy development and a thorough understanding of the machinery of government. To be successful in this role, you will have the following attributes:

• Experience in policy and project development in a regulatory environment.
• Well-developed ability to critically analyse and interpret complex information and make effective, well-reasoned decisions.
• Strong writing skills with the ability to convey complex information.
• Ability to coach and mentor other staff members.
• Proactive and effective management of internal and external relationships, using influencing and persuading techniques.

About Us

Our Values – Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Transparency, and Collaboration –represent the standards of behaviour we uphold and guide how we work at the CAA. We embrace diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive environment where our people feel respected, safe, and valued for their unique contributions. We recognise that our people drive our success. 

Apply directly by completing the online application form and submit your CV and Cover Letter.

We want to ensure accessibility needs are well supported, so the recruitment process is fair and equitable for all. Therefore, please let us know if there is any support we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is accessible to you.

For more information on the role please view the position description or contact the Recruitment team at  Please note that we will not accept applications via email.

Applications close on Sunday 23 November.