Senior Advisor, Strategy

• Are you passionate about strategy, technology, and making an impact?
• Shape the future of aviation security technology and equipment
• Turn research and insight into real strategic impact

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. 

If you're ready to grow your career while helping keep one of New Zealand's most vital sectors safe and secure, this is your opportunity. 

About the Role

As a Senior Advisor, Strategy (Equipment and Technology), you'll play a key role in shaping the CAA's strategic approach to Aviation Security technology and equipment. You'll undertake research, engagement, and horizon scanning to identify future needs and opportunities, ensuring these insights inform the CAA's long-term strategy, planning, and investment decisions.

You'll work closely with the Aviation Security and Corporate Services groups to guide strategic planning for aviation security technology, equipment, and infrastructure. By staying informed on global developments and innovations, you'll help ensure the CAA's planning and direction are well-informed, connected, and positioned to meet future challenges.

What You Will Do

• Help shape the CAA's long-term direction by contributing to key strategies and turning them into practical, organisation-wide plans.
• Work collaboratively across the CAA to build understanding of our strategic priorities and ensure teams are connected and aligned to our vision.
• Stay ahead of the curve by researching global trends and innovations in aviation safety and security and identifying how they could enhance CAA's work.
• Spot opportunities for new ideas, trials, and proof-of-concept projects in aviation security, partnering with the Aviation Security and Digital & Workplace teams to bring them to life.
• Anticipate future challenges and emerging risks to help the CAA plan and adapt to a changing regulatory environment.
• Support planning and decision-making around aviation security technology, infrastructure, and services to ensure they align with our strategic goals.
• Provide expert advice on best practice, future direction, and opportunities to strengthen how we deliver aviation security.
• Build strong, trusted relationships across the organisation and with key partners to support collaboration and well-informed decisions.

What You Will Bring

• Strong experience in conducting research and engagement to stay across emerging trends and best practice.
• Proven ability to design and deliver horizon scanning activities to identify future challenges and opportunities or expertise in Aviation Security infrastructure and technology.
• Be a self-starter with the ability to work independently on projects.
• Comfortable working with ambiguity in a role where processes and outcomes may evolve.
• Experience building relationships and collaborating across government and sector organisations is essential.
• Ability to quickly understand and engage with complex topics such as equipment, technology, and infrastructure.
• Experience working with technical standards or equipment is an advantage.
• International engagement experience would be an asset.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance if required.

The salary band for this position starts at $115,536 to a maximum of $141,751. The starting salary will be based on the knowledge, skills and experience you may bring to the role and relativities across the organisation.

About Us

Our Values – Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Transparency, and Collaboration – represent the standards of behaviour we uphold and guide how we work at the Authority. 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.

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 fully accessible to you.

Please apply online with your CV and cover letter, outlining your relevant experience and motivation for the role.

If you have any queries, please refer to the position description here or contact the Recruitment Team on

Applications close on Thursday 27 November 2025.