Lead Investigator - AML/CFT

Lead Investigator (AML/CFT) – Fixed Term Regulatory Intelligence & Investigations | Department of Internal Affairs | Wellington Reporting to: Manager Investigations AML/CFT and Charities | Location: Wellington | Salary range: Regulatory Band I Overview Help protect New Zealand's financial system from financial crime. This role is for an experienced Lead Investigator to join our AML/CFT investigations team. In this role, you'll lead some of New Zealand's most significant AML/CFT investigations, targeting serious non‑compliance and helping to safeguard the integrity of our financial system. You'll provide technical leadership across the investigations function, influence investigative strategy, and help shape a risk‑based and intelligence‑led approach to regulatory enforcement. You'll work alongside investigators, legal advisors, and partner agencies to deliver robust, defensible, and impactful regulatory outcomes. Responsibilities Lead complex and high‑profile AML/CFT investigations. Provide expert advice on investigative strategy, evidence, and enforcement approaches. Identify and respond to emerging AML/CFT risks, typologies, and non‑compliance trends. Coach and mentor investigators to strengthen capability and consistency across the team. Support the Practice Lead to develop continuously improve investigative frameworks, methodologies, and operational practices. Build strong working relationships with legal partners, New Zealand Police, the Financial Intelligence Unit, and other regulatory agencies. Qualifications More than five years' experience leading complex regulatory, financial crime, compliance, or enforcement investigations. Deep understanding of investigative practice, risk management, and regulatory enforcement. Experience interpreting and applying legislation in complex investigative environments and taking investigations through prosecution. Excellent judgement, analytical thinking, and decision‑making skills. Strong communication and stakeholder management capability. The ability to influence others, build capability, and lead through expertise rather than formal authority. Experience in AML/CFT is a bonus. Salary The appointing range for this role is $115,425 – $143,640. How to apply We are unable to accept applications via email. Please use the apply button to submit your application. We’re committed to ensuring our application process is accessible to everyone. If you need support, let us know. Applications for this role close at 5 pm on 30 July. You must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this role. If you have any questions, please email [email protected] . #J-18808-Ljbffr