Director Missions

Overview This role is Wellington based. At New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), our purpose is to grow companies internationally for the good of New Zealand. The role sits at the centre of NZTE’s missions work, supporting exporters in key markets and building commercial and government relationships. As Director Missions , you will lead NZTE’s missions programme and specialist team to deliver world-class mission experiences. Reporting to the General Manager International and sitting on the International Leadership Team, you will work across NZTE’s global network, NZ Inc. partners, government agencies, and senior stakeholders in New Zealand and offshore to align priorities and deliver successful outcomes. What you’ll be doing Lead planning and delivery of high-quality international missions that support commercial outcomes and strengthen New Zealand’s presence in key markets. Contribute to strategy and direction as part of the International Leadership Team, while ensuring disciplined delivery in a fast-paced, high-profile environment. Focus on outbound missions, with the team also supporting inbound missions as needed. Lead and support a specialist team that acts as a centre of excellence for missions across NZTE, lifting capability, improving practice, and delivering high-impact experiences. Shape priorities, align delivery, and ensure strong execution from planning through to completion, drawing on NZ Inc. and government understanding, including experience with the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministers’ offices, or NZ Inc. partners. Operate effectively when circumstances change, pivot quickly, adapt delivery approaches, and maintain confidence, focus, and quality; prioritise high-value work in a busy, visible role. What you’ll need to be successful Senior leadership experience in complex commercial, business, government, or cross-sector environments, with proven ability to develop and deliver both strategy and operational plans. Comfort leading through ambiguity, working at pace, and managing competing priorities while maintaining quality and customer impact. Strong people leadership who inspires, coaches, and enables others through influence, judgement, and resilience; remains composed under pressure and aligns teams through change. Strong stakeholder leadership skills, building trust and influencing senior people across New Zealand and internationally; confident across government, NZ Inc., industry, companies, and NZTE’s offshore network. Operational excellence with sharp delivery focus, attention to detail, and the agility to adapt, make timely decisions, redesign plans, and keep mission activity aligned to key outcomes. Why you will love working here Lead high-profile international engagements, shape NZTE’s mission impact for exporters and New Zealand, and work across government, business, and global markets. Flexible, stimulating environment with access to world-class business networks and a diverse, international team. What’s next If this sounds like the opportunity you have been looking for, please review the Position Description. To apply, please send your resume and a cover letter detailing why you are interested in this opportunity. Applications close Tuesday 30 June at 11:59pm. Please note, you must have the right to work in New Zealand to apply for this role. This role is a NZ L19. We believe New Zealand is good for the world. NZTE is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity of thought. 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 Partner. #J-18808-Ljbffr