Senior Project Manager

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The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand seeks a Senior Project Manager for a Wellington onsite two‑year fixed‑term role within the Business Transformation Programme, responsible for leading cross‑organisation projects, shaping business cases, managing risks, and presenting to ELT and the Board while coaching peers. The ideal candidate has proven experience delivering transformation programmes, strong grounding in project management frameworks (PRINCE2, PMP, MSP preferred), excellent relationship building, and proven skills in stakeholder and vendor management, planning, and governance. To apply, tailor your CV and a cover letter with concrete cross‑organisation delivery examples, and show how you influence senior leaders. Apply online by 26 June 2026; early shortlisting may occur. Questions to [email protected]; accessibility support available.

• Great opportunity to elevate your project management experience
• Lead complex, high‑visibility projects across the organisation
• Wellington based | 2 Year Fixed Term

About the role

CAA is entering a significant period of transformation as we modernise how we operate and regulate New Zealand’s aviation system. 

You’ll engage, influence, and guide stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget, while maintaining strong governance and communication across all levels.

About Business Transformation Programme 

The Business Transformation Programme is a multi-year initiative focused on enabling the organisation to operate as a modern, intelligence-led regulator. The programme will deliver improvements to systems, processes, data, and ways of working, ensuring the organisation can effectively manage risk, meet its statutory obligations, and support a safe, efficient, and sustainable aviation system. It brings together multiple workstreams to drive coordinated change and deliver long-term value for both the organisation and the wider system. 

What You Will Be Doing 

• Lead the planning and delivery of complex, cross-organisation projects that support transformation outcomes
• Provide thought leadership to help shape shaping business cases
• Monitor and manage risks, issues, and changes
• Influence project governance and decision‑making
• Presenting projects to the ELT, Board, and Committees to support delivery and decision-making
• Coach and mentor Workstream Leads, Project Managers, and Project Coordinators
• Lead project closure activities

For more information on the role please view the position description.

What we’re looking for 

If you’re an experienced project professional who thrives on delivering complex initiatives, builds strong relationships, and brings a structured, forward‑thinking approach to project delivery, this is a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

To succeed in this role you’ll demonstrate:

• Proven experience delivering complex, cross-organisation projects in a transformation programme environment
• Strong grounding in project management frameworks (PRINCE2, PMP, MSP certification preferred)
• Excellent relationship‑building skills with the ability to influence at all levels
• Experience engaging with senior leaders, steering groups, and presenting at Board level
• Experience managing external stakeholders and vendors
• A passion for coaching and mentoring others to build capability
• Strong planning skills, including developing project plans, reporting progress, managing risks, and resolving issues
• A proactive, connected approach with the ability to anticipate challenges and meet key deadlines

About us

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is New Zealand’s aviation safety and security regulator. We play a critical role in protecting the travelling public, supporting the aviation sector, and strengthening New Zealand’s international reputation.

Our vision is simple and powerful: A safe and secure aviation system – so people are safe, and feel safe when they fly.

Our values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Transparency, and Collaboration guide everything we do. We’re committed to diversity, inclusion, and creating a workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to contribute.

Ready to Apply?

If you’re ready to grow your career while delivering impactful projects that support one of New Zealand’s most vital sectors, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply directly by completing the online application form and submitting your CV and cover letter. Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the skills required for this role.

We want to ensure accessibility needs are well supported, so the recruitment process is fair and equitable for all. Please let us know if there is any support we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is fully accessible to you.

If you have any questions about the role or application process, contact Shannon Ransley at [email protected].

Applications close: 26 June 2026

Please be aware that we may start shortlisting as applications come in. We encourage early applications, as the advertisement may close sooner than stated.