Chief Legal Counsel
Job Description
The Civil Aviation Authority and the Aviation Security Service offer distinctively different career opportunities and embrace diverse talent. All jobs at the Authority contribute to ensuring safe and secure skies to help New Zealand fly.
As Chief Legal Counsel, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the legal and regulatory integrity of New Zealand's aviation system. You will lead expert advice on complex regulatory, public law, and privacy matters, guide a high‑performing legal team, and bring clear, trusted judgement to critical organisational decisions.
This role is part of the Regulatory Enablement and Response Leadership Team and will provide strategic direction to the Legal Services function, ensuring legal considerations are integrated into organisational strategy, policy, and operational decision‑making.
Key Responsibilities- Provide strategic legal advice and oversee legal risk, assurance, and compliance across the Authority.
- Lead and develop a high‑performing Legal Services team.
- Act as Privacy Officer and lead privacy and information governance.
- Support regulatory and enforcement activities through sound legal guidance.
- Manage external counsel, litigation, and key legal relationships.
- Contribute to policy, legislation, and regulatory stewardship.
- Significant senior legal leadership experience in a complex government or regulatory environment.
- Proven ability to advise Chief Executives, Boards, and senior leaders on high‑risk matters.
- Strong legal judgement, with the ability to apply legal risk in the context of broader organisational, operational, and strategic considerations.
- Exceptional influencing and communication skills, with credibility at executive level.
- Track record of building and leading high‑performing legal teams.
- Strong understanding of public sector accountability, regulatory stewardship, and governance.
- Admitted as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand with a current practising certificate.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
The salary band for this role is $188,168 to $230,231.
