Senior Programme Manager - Rule Update Programme Manager

Senior Programme Manager – Rules Update Programme

Wellington Based

Lead one of New Zealand aviation’s most important transformation programmes.

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. 

With a new strategy to support this, we’ve got clarity on CAA’s long-term vision, where we will focus our effort, and the positive impacts we want to make through the delivery of our safety and security activities. 

Part of this is a work programme to update the Civil Aviation Rules — an important step in keeping New Zealand’s aviation system safe, efficient, and fit for the future. Now’s the time to get on board and help us ensure that the rules remain responsive to technological change, evolving industry needs, and international standards. 

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

We are seeking an experienced Senior Programme Manager to lead the delivery of the Rules Update Programme, a 2-year programme that is both a CAA strategic priority and a key part of the Minister’s Aviation Action Plan.

This is a high-impact leadership role, responsible for guiding multiple, complex rule change projects from end to end. You will lead a pool of specialist resources, ensuring work is prioritised, well-planned and delivered to a consistently high standard.

Working closely with senior leaders, the aviation sector, and central government agencies, you will play a pivotal role in modernising New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Rules.

This is a 2-year fixed term contract.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the development and delivery of a multi-year programme to modernise Civil Aviation Rules
• Oversee multiple concurrent rule change projects, managing scope, risks, issues and dependencies
• Apply strong programme and project management disciplines to drive successful outcomes
• Lead and inspire matrix-managed teams, fostering collaboration, innovation and high performance
• Provide trusted advice and guidance to senior leaders, including Executive and Board stakeholders
• Champion continuous improvement in rules-making processes, tools and ways of working
• Manage programme governance, reporting, stakeholder engagement and budget oversight

What You’ll Bring

• Strong experience leading complex programmes or portfolios of work
• Proven delivery experience within a regulatory or public sector environment, with a strong understanding of the machinery of government
• Demonstrated success leading teams
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills at senior levels
• Strong analytical judgement, with the ability to navigate complexity and ambiguity
• A collaborative, inclusive leadership style aligned with public service values
• The ability to quickly build credibility and confidence across diverse audiences

Experience in aviation is beneficial, but not essential. What matters most is your ability to lead complexity, influence outcomes, and deliver meaningful regulatory change.

The salary range for this role is $160 911 to $190 277. The starting salary will be dependent on your skills and experience and will take into account internal relativities within the team.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to influence how aviation rules are implemented and understood across New Zealand. Your work will directly support safer operations, clearer compliance pathways, and a more effective aviation regulatory system—during a time of major transformation.

At the CAA, you’ll find:

• Work that directly contributes to public and sector safety
• A collaborative and supportive environment
• Opportunities to shape national guidance frameworks
• A diverse and inclusive workplace that values your expertise and perspective

Apply Now

If you’re passionate about clear communication, regulatory effectiveness, and supporting safe aviation outcomes, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply directly by completing the online application form and submitting your CV and Cover Letter. Please note that your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so highlight how your experience aligns with the key skills required for this role.

We are committed to ensuring accessibility throughout the recruitment process. If there is any support, we can provide to ensure the process is equitable and accessible for you, please let us know.

For more information on the role, please view the position description. For any questions, please contact Patrice Wilkin on recruitment@caa.govt.nz. *Please note we can not accept email applications.

Applications close: Monday 12/01/2026.