04th March, 2026
Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ)
Transform New Zealand's Built Environment – Lead Research That Matters
Are you an experienced research leader ready to drive meaningful impact across Aotearoa New Zealand's building industry? BRANZ is seeking a Chief Research Officer to join our Executive Management Team and lead our world-class research portfolio.
About BRANZ
We are the Building Research Association of New Zealand – a team of passionate scientists, engineers, and professionals committed to ensuring buildings are the best they can be. Our state-of-the-art facilities in Porirua can simulate fire, earthquakes, and extreme weather at scale, accelerating decades of real-world conditions to ensure buildings can withstand whatever nature throws at them.
The Opportunity
As Chief Research Officer, you'll provide strategic and operational leadership across our entire research portfolio, translating research excellence into measurable impact and commercial outcomes while driving a high-performance research culture.
What You'll Do
- Lead Strategic Research: Deliver a multi-year research portfolio that drives real-world impact and stakeholder value
- Drive Commercial Growth: Embed commercial mindset, identify revenue opportunities, and improve portfolio economics
- Executive Leadership: Contribute to organisational strategy as part of the Executive Management Team
- Secure External Funding: Develop proactive funding strategies and build senior relationships with key partners
- Inspire Teams: Provide exceptional leadership to the research teams and encourage innovation across BRANZ
What We're Looking For
We're seeking a candidate with proven experience managing complex, multi-year project portfolios. You'll be an experienced leader with a demonstrated track record of building high-performance teams, combined with outstanding stakeholder engagement and networking abilities.
Our ideal candidate will be agile and resourceful, comfortable navigating change and ambiguity with confidence. You're intellectually curious with a genuine passion for innovation, and naturally collaborative – an active listener who builds valuable networks and partnerships.
Above all, you're someone who thrives in dynamic environments and can inspire others while delivering strategic outcomes.
Why Join BRANZ? - Meaningful Impact: Contribute to safer, better buildings across New Zealand
- Executive Leadership: Influence organisational strategy and direction
- World-Class Facilities: Work with cutting-edge research capabilities
- Collaborative Culture: Join a team that values partnership and excellence
To Apply Rothley is conducting this search process on behalf of BRANZ. For a copy of the candidate information pack please email info@rothley.co.nz or apply via SEEK with your resume and cover letter.
For further enquiries please contact Kirsty Brown on 021 660 757.
Applications close on 25 March at 5:00pm.
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