Data Architect

• Lead enterprise data architecture in business transformation  

• Drive trusted, governed data for smarter decisions  

• Shape data strategy across systems, processes and teams 

About the role 

CAA is entering a significant period of transformation to modernise how we operate and regulate New Zealand’s aviation system. 

We are looking for an experienced Data Architect for a 12-month fixed term to provide enterprise-level leadership across the Business Transformation Programme — ensuring data is trusted, well-governed, and effectively leveraged to support better decisions, regulatory outcomes, and service delivery. 

This role sits at the intersection of business, architecture, and delivery, shaping how data is structured, managed and used across multiple initiatives. 

About Business Transformation Programme 

The Business Transformation Programme is a multi-year initiative focused on enabling the organisation to operate as a modern, intelligence-led regulator. The programme will deliver improvements to systems, processes, data, and ways of working, ensuring the organisation can effectively manage risk, meet its statutory obligations, and support a safe, efficient, and sustainable aviation system. It brings together multiple workstreams to drive coordinated change and deliver long-term value for both the organisation and the wider system. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Define and maintain the enterprise data architecture (current and future state) 

• Establish data principles, standards, and governance frameworks 

• Ensure data is consistent, integrated and fit-for-purpose across systems and processes 

• Provide expert advice to ELT, governance forums, and programme leadership 

• Drive alignment across workstreams, resolving data conflicts and fragmentation 

• Enable data-driven decision-making, including reporting and analytics capability 

• Ensure compliance with privacy, security, and regulatory requirements 

• Work closely with CAA’s Digital Architects to ensure the delivery of the above as part of BTP  

• Contribute to building data capability and maturity across the organisation. 

For more information on the role please view the position description 

What You’ll Bring 

• Experience leading data architecture in large, complex transformation programmes 

• Ability to operate at enterprise and executive level, influencing decisions 

• Strong understanding of: 

• • data modelling 

• • data governance 

• • data integration 

• • data quality 

• Proven ability to connect data with: 

• • business processes 

• • operating models 

• • technology platforms 

• Strong stakeholder engagement skills across technical and non-technical audiences 

• Ability to balance strategic direction with delivery pragmatism 

• Experience in public sector or regulated environments (desirable) 

• Experience with modern data platforms and NZ Government data standards (desirable) 

About us 

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is New Zealand’s aviation safety and security regulator. We play a critical role in protecting the travelling public, supporting the aviation sector, and strengthening New Zealand’s international reputation. 

 
Our vision is simple and powerful: A safe and secure aviation system – so people are safe and feel safe when they fly. 

Our values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Transparency, and Collaboration guide everything we do. We’re committed to diversity, inclusion, and creating a workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to contribute. 

Why Join Us? 

• Matching KiwiSaver contributions up to 4%  

• Vision assistance 

• Flu Vaccinations 

• Employee Assistance Programme 

Ready to Apply? 

If you’re an experienced Data Architect who enjoys shaping enterprise data strategy, we’d love to hear from you. 

Apply directly by completing the online application form and submitting your CV and cover letter. Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the skills required for this role.  

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