31st March, 2026
About the Office of the Auditor-General Te Mana Arotake
The Controller and Auditor-General is a statutory officer of Parliament and a cornerstone of New Zealand's constitutional framework. Independent of the executive, the Auditor-General provides assurance to Parliament and the public that public organisations are operating and accounting for their performance as Parliament intended, safeguarding the financial integrity of New Zealand's system of government.
The Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) plays a critical role in promoting transparency and accountability across the public sector. Our people are passionate about public service and bring deep expertise, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to making a real difference for New Zealanders.
The Role
This is a senior leadership opportunity to drive meaningful improvement in the performance and accountability of New Zealand's local government sector.
As Director, Local Government Sector, you will oversee engagement and manage effective relationships between the OAG, local authorities (regional, district and city councils), appointed auditors, key sector stakeholders, and Parliament. You will ensure the Auditor-General, Deputy Auditor-General, and other stakeholders receive high-quality information and expert advice on matters of interest and potential issues related to local government entities.
You will be a key member of the Central and Local Government group leadership team, sharing collective responsibility for delivering effective sector engagement, audit oversight, and timely advice to Parliament and local government.
What You'll Do
- Analyse sector intelligence, risks, and emerging themes to inform the work programme and drive accountability improvements
- Proactively identify matters of interest and potential audit issues across the local government portfolio
- Support and direct audit service providers, monitoring delivery and resolving issues proactively
- Build and maintain trusted relationships with governors, chief executives, and senior managers across local authorities
- Engage with the Governance, Administration and Environment Committees of Parliament, providing timely and high-quality advice
- Provide expert counsel to the Assistant Auditor-General, Deputy Auditor-General, and Auditor-General on portfolio matters
- Lead, coach, and develop a team of 6–8 direct reports, fostering a high-performing and collaborative culture
About You You are a senior leader with deep roots in New Zealand's local government sector and a track record of credibility with councils and sector leaders. You bring strategic thinking, sound judgement, and the ability to communicate with influence at the highest levels.
You will bring: - Experience managing people and work programmes
- Deep knowledge of New Zealand's local government sector, with demonstrated credibility with councils and sector leaders
- A thorough understanding of New Zealand's system of government, the role of Parliament, and the Auditor-General's place within it
- Experience advising local government, Ministers, members of Parliament, or parliamentary select committees
- Proven ability to work effectively at a senior level with governors, chief executives, and senior public sector leaders
- An understanding of finance, accounting, and auditing practices (or the ability to quickly develop this)
Why the OAG? This is a rare opportunity to step into a role where your expertise in local government genuinely shapes public accountability across New Zealand's communities.
From regional councils to city and district authorities, you'll oversee a diverse and dynamic portfolio bringing the Auditor-General's independent lens to the issues that matter most at a local level. You'll engage directly with council leaders and sector stakeholders, and influence how local government performs and reports. You’ll also share your insights about the sector directly with Parliament.
The OAG offers a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment, where you'll be part of a leadership team committed to continuous improvement and meaningful impact. If you're passionate about local government and want to apply that expertise in a role with real constitutional significance, this is the opportunity for you.
How to Apply Rothley is conducting this search on behalf of Office of the Auditor-General.
For a copy of the candidate pack please email info@rothley.co.nz or contact Kirsty Brown at 021 660 757 or Marc Schmid on 021 102 6192.
Applications close on Sunday 19 April 2026.
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