Chief Data and Analytics Officer

This role can be based in either Auckland or Wellington.

Who are we

At NZTE, we help New Zealand businesses grow internationally by connecting them with the right partners, insights, and opportunities. We're proud to support exporters and investors who are shaping the future of Aotearoa on the global stage. As we continue to evolve into a digitally enabled, insight-driven organisation, data is at the heart of our transformation.

Why this role matters

We're looking for a visionary Chief Data and Analytics Officer to lead NZTE's journey to becoming a truly data-driven, AI-enabled organisation. This is a pivotal executive leadership role, responsible for shaping and executing our enterprise-wide data strategy, enabling smarter decisions, better customer experiences, and measurable business impact.

What you'll do

• Lead the development and execution of NZTE's data and analytics strategy, aligned with our AI roadmap and organisational goals.
• Inspire and grow a high-performing team of data professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Champion the use of data across NZTE, building enterprise-wide capability and a vibrant community of practice.
• Oversee data governance, privacy, and compliance, ensuring alignment with public sector standards and best practices.
• Architect and evolve our data ecosystem to support AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics.
• Collaborate across NZTE and with external partners to deliver impactful data products and services.
• Represent data and analytics at the executive level, influencing strategic decisions and driving enterprise-wide alignment.

What you'll bring

• Deep expertise in data strategy, architecture, governance, and analytics, ideally in complex or public sector environments.
• Proven leadership experience in building and scaling data teams and capabilities.
• Strong understanding of data management and architecture frameworks (e.g. DAMA, TOGAF, DCAM).
• Experience driving adoption of new data capabilities, including AI and machine learning.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to balance long-term vision with short-term delivery.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills – you're a storyteller, a listener, and a trusted advisor.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in IT, data science, statistics, or a related field.

Why join NZTE?

At NZTE, you'll be at the forefront of our digital transformation—shaping how data and AI drive our future. This is your opportunity to lead with purpose in an organisation that champions innovation, inclusion, and community.

• Purpose-led impact: Help New Zealand businesses grow globally through data-driven insights and AI innovation.
• Executive influence: Be a key voice in NZTE's strategic direction, with the autonomy to shape our data future.
• Inclusive culture: We celebrate your heritage, your aspirations, and your growth. From Matariki to Diwali, we honour the diverse cultures that make up our team.
• Flexible and whānau-friendly: Our hybrid working model and supportive policies help you balance work and life.
• Growth and development: Access leadership development, mentorship, and clear pathways for progression.
• Collaborative innovation: Join a team that values diverse perspectives and works together to solve complex challenges.

What's next:

For more information, please read the
position description
here. Apply online attaching your resume and cover letter by
Monday 4th November at 9am NZDT
.

This is an NZ Level 20 role.

Please note: The legal right to live and work in NZ is required to apply for this role.

If you have any further enquiries or questions, please send directly to

We believe New Zealand is good for the World. New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is an equal opportunity employer. At NZTE it is all about our people and we seek diversity of though; we welcome and encourage you to apply regardless of ethnicity, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, neurodiversity or disability. If we need to make specific accommodations in any part of the interview process, please note this in your application or discuss with the Talent Acquisition team.