31st March, 2026
About the Office of the Auditor-General
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 influence the performance and accountability of central government agencies and social sector entities at the heart of New Zealand's public sector.
As Director, Central Agencies and Social Sector, you will oversee engagement and maintain effective relationships between the OAG, Parliament, public entities within your portfolio, and their appointed auditors. A key focus of your role will be supporting Parliament through annual financial reviews and examinations of the Estimates of Appropriations, ensuring the Auditor-General, Deputy Auditor-General, and select committees receive expert advice on matters of interest and emerging issues.
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.
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 central agencies and social sector 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 your portfolio entities
- Provide timely, high-quality advice and support to select committees on financial reviews and estimates examinations
- 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 a strong understanding of New Zealand's central government landscape and the machinery of Parliament. You bring intellectual rigour, strategic acumen, and the credibility to advise and influence at the most senior levels.
You will bring: - Experience managing people and work programmes
- A thorough understanding of New Zealand's system of government, the role of Parliament, and the Auditor-General's place within it
- Experience in public, financial, or performance management
- Experience advising 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 genuinely shapes public accountability in New Zealand. You'll work at the intersection of government, Parliament, and the public sector advising at the highest levels and leading a team that does work that matters.
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. With the autonomy to lead your own portfolio and the backing of an organisation with real constitutional significance, this is a career-defining role for a senior leader ready to make their mark on New Zealand's public sector.
How to Apply
Rothley is conducting this search process 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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