Director Regulatory and Advisory

Lead New Zealand's Cyber Defence Strategy at an Executive Level

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is seeking an exceptional and strategically-minded Executive to join our Leadership Team as the Director, Regulatory and Advisory. This is a rare opportunity to shape and strengthen New Zealand's cyber defences, influencing national policy and strategy at the highest levels.

In this pivotal role, you will lead the Regulatory and Advisory branch, driving a comprehensive work programme that lifts cyber security across the public sector, critical infrastructure, and the wider economy. Your leadership will be crucial in ensuring New Zealand is resilient against evolving cyber threats.

About the role

As a key member of the NCSC Executive and Senior Leadership Group, you will be instrumental in:

• System Leadership: Guide the GCSB Director General in their role as the Government Chief Information Security Officer (GCISO), delivering the system-level work programme under the Public Sector Act.
• Strategic Direction: Provide timely and effective advice to the Deputy Director-General Cyber Security (DDGCS), helping to inform strategic decisions and set the direction for New Zealand's cyber security landscape.
• Regulatory Oversight: Oversee critical national security risk assessments under key legislation, including the Telecommunications (Interception Capability & Security) Act (TICSA), Outer Space and High-Altitude Act (OSHAA), and the Overseas Investment Act.
• Sector Engagement: Cultivate strong relationships with senior officials across the public sector, critical infrastructure operators, and international partners to foster a coordinated and robust cyber defence.
• International Collaboration: Work in partnership with Pacific nations to uplift cyber security capabilities in the South-West Pacific.
• Talent and Culture: Champion a high-performance culture within the Regulatory and Advisory branch, inspiring and developing your team to deliver on mission objectives.
• Public Representation: Represent the NCSC and DDGCS at public events, stakeholder engagements, and international forums.

About you

We are seeking a senior executive with a proven track record of leadership in a complex, high-stakes environment. You will possess:

• Extensive experience leading high-performing teams in a regulatory, advisory, or national security context.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, with the ability to translate complex challenges into clear, deliverable work programmes.
• Demonstrated expertise in senior stakeholder management, negotiation, and influence.
• The credibility and gravitas to operate at the political interface and represent the organisation with authority.
• A strong commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.

Why join us?

This is more than a job; it's a mission-critical role at the heart of New Zealand's cyber security. You will be part of a dedicated team of professionals working to protect New Zealand and its interests. You will be challenged, your skills will be sharpened, and your contributions will have a direct and lasting impact on the nation's security.

To apply

If you have the executive leadership experience and strategic vision to drive New Zealand's cyber security forward, we invite you to apply. Further details regarding this role can be found in the attached position description. Please submit your application with a cover letter outlining your suitability for this challenging and rewarding role.

Before you apply

Working within our unique environment means we have to ensure you're eligible for employment.

You must:

• Have been a New Zealand Citizen for at least 10 years

OR

Hold a current NZ Residency Class Visa and ideally have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia for at least 10 years

• Be eligible to obtain a Top Secret Special (TSS) security clearanceOrdinarily, this means you'll have a 15-year checkable background in countries NZSIS Vetting can make meaningful and reliable checks.
• Ordinarily, this means you'll have a 15-year checkable background in countries NZSIS Vetting can make meaningful and reliable checks.

Still unsure? Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a TSS security clearance:

The NZIC treats all applications for employment in the strictest confidence, and we expect that you maintain a similar level of confidentiality during the recruitment process and throughout your career.

We'll provide you with information and tips throughout the recruitment process, but in the meantime check out our Myth Busting booklet:

You can also learn more about our work and understand our areas of focus by reading New Zealand's Security Threat Environment | New Zealand Security Intelligence Service.