National Manager Asset Ownership

About the Role

The National Manager Asset Ownership position holds a pivotal leadership responsibility in managing New Zealand's extensive and valuable public transport asset portfolio, particularly across the state highway and rapid transit networks. This role is based in Wellington or Auckland and focuses on shaping long-term network performance, enhancing resilience, and ensuring optimal value from the investment in infrastructure assets.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of asset management plans, quality assurance frameworks, and asset standards for consistent performance across current and new infrastructure.
• Own the frameworks used for identification, management, and mitigation of asset and network risks, ensuring network performance meets agreed service levels.
• Drive the integration of asset intelligence, analytics, and digital technologies to facilitate data-driven decision making that prioritizes investment, maintenance, and operations efficiently.
• Provide system leadership within the Asset & Operations Group Leadership Team, promoting a balanced approach that optimizes safety, resilience, operational performance, cost-effectiveness, and risk management throughout the asset lifecycle.
• Collaborate closely with the Infrastructure Development & Delivery Group to ensure alignment of planning, investment, and delivery decisions for comprehensive asset lifecycle and network outcome optimization.
• Contribute to elevating the organisation's asset management maturity by embedding continuous improvement, digital enablement, and evidence-led planning processes.

Candidate Profile and Requirements

• Proven senior leadership capabilities, including leading through others and translating strategy into tangible priorities, plans, and results within large and complex organisations.
• Extensive leadership experience in asset management, encompassing whole-of-life planning and balancing service levels, risk, resilience, cost controls, and long-term value across multifaceted asset portfolios.
• In-depth expertise in asset management systems, standards, assurance, lifecycle governance, and network operations within the broader transport context.
• Experience in developing and implementing standards, plans, frameworks, or methodologies that enhance consistency, safety, resilience, and value-for-money outcomes.
• Proficiency in utilizing asset intelligence, condition monitoring data, and performance analytics to inform investment, maintenance, and operational choices effectively.
• Established track record of building influence and credibility with senior stakeholders, partners, and sector groups to achieve integrated and aligned outcomes.
• Postgraduate qualifications or equivalent experience in a relevant discipline.

The ideal candidate will also demonstrate respect and engagement with Te Ao Māori, support New Zealand Transport Agency's commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and advocate for workplace inclusivity that benefits from diverse viewpoints.

About the Organisation

New Zealand Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) manages vital transport networks with a dedication to serving people, communities, and the country sustainably. The Asset & Operations division is charged with ensuring state highway and rapid transit assets operate reliably, safely, and sustainably for current and future generations. The team values collaboration, excellence in delivery, commercial acumen, and positive community impact.

Additional Benefits and Information

• Availability of flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Strong emphasis on professional growth and development opportunities.
• A welcoming, inclusive, and supportive team culture.
• Opportunity to contribute to nationally significant infrastructure projects.
• Competitive remuneration and benefits package.

Application Details & Legal Requirements

Applications are to be submitted with a CV and cover letter by 21 August 2026. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. The organisation is committed to equal opportunity employment, valuing diversity and inclusion, and provides support for accessibility needs during recruitment. Early applications are encouraged as recruitment may close prior to the deadline.