Job description

Overview

Join EY's Defence and National Security practice in Wellington to contribute to impactful projects serving government clients focused on national security and defence matters. This is a chance to develop your consulting expertise within a diverse, values-driven team committed to delivering significant outcomes for New Zealand.

Key Responsibilities

Employ structured analysis and practical problem-solving in public sector and defence initiatives to achieve outcome-oriented results.
Provide support for critical government programmes including operations, procurement, asset and investment management, and organisational transformation.
Collaborate closely with clients and EY teams to effect sustainable changes in multifaceted environments.
Analyse complex data to develop insights that inform evidence-based decision processes.

Required Skills and Attributes

Genuine interest in New Zealand government operations and public sector service delivery.
Relevant experience in consulting, policy, defence, national security, emergency management, infrastructure, or related government sectors.
Curiosity and analytical acumen toward improving systemic processes.
Highly motivated with strong judgement, accountability, and a commitment to quality.
Excellent verbal and written communication, analytical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills focused on practical delivery.
Familiarity with business case development, artificial intelligence applications, operating model design, or complex governance structures is advantageous.

Eligibility and Clearance Requirements

Must be a New Zealand citizen, or have New Zealand Permanent Residence or a current Residency Class Visa.
Applicants may need a continuous residence history over the past decade in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the UK or the USA.
A verifiable background check covering the last ten years is mandatory for certain roles requiring government security clearance.

Potential candidates uncertain about clearing these requirements are encouraged to discuss concerns during the expression of interest process.

What We Offer

An opportunity to contribute to government priorities that significantly impact New Zealand.
Engagement with senior leaders seasoned in government, defence, national security, and transformation fields.
Access to esteemed global learning and development programs.
Flexibility in working arrangements, strong wellbeing benefits, and an inclusive culture empowering employees to excel.
A comprehensive benefits package including a wellness incentive, additional flex leave, and gender-neutral paid parental leave options.

Additional Information

This is a hybrid role based primarily in Wellington with flexible options available upon discussion. The practice welcomes applicants at various experience levels, emphasizing aptitude and eagerness to learn over ticking every requirement box. EY is committed to fostering an equitable and accessible recruitment process; applicants are encouraged to request needed support confidentially.

Successful candidates will undergo employment screening by EY or an external provider.

Consultant - Defence and National Security Practice

Where you'll work