General Manager - New Zealand

About the organisation

The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) is the leading industry body for rail across Australia and New Zealand. It brings together operators, infrastructure managers, manufacturers, suppliers and consultants to support a safer, more sustainable and better connected rail network.

Role overview

ARA is looking for a senior, well-connected leader to represent and grow its presence in New Zealand as General Manager - New Zealand. This is a landmark appointment and the first dedicated ARA role based in New Zealand. The position offers a rare chance to influence rail policy, deepen collaboration across the sector, and strengthen the rail industry’s voice with government and stakeholders throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.

Reporting to the Head of Policy & Advocacy and working closely with the ARA Aotearoa Rail Committee, you will lead engagement, advocacy and member-focused activity across New Zealand. You will serve as the main ARA representative in the country, building trusted relationships with government, industry leaders and key stakeholders while supporting a strong and sustainable future for rail.

Key responsibilities

• Drive engagement with government and external stakeholders across New Zealand
• Lift the visibility of the ARA and the wider rail sector
• Support membership growth and member engagement in New Zealand
• Oversee the Aotearoa Rail Committee and associated working groups
• Create and execute policy and advocacy initiatives
• Plan and lead industry events, forums and member activities
• Advance sustainability and decarbonisation efforts in the rail sector
• Track policy, regulatory and political changes affecting rail and infrastructure

Candidate profile

The ideal person will be a senior policy, advocacy or industry engagement professional with strong credibility and networks within New Zealand government and industry.

Experience in rail, transport, infrastructure or a related field is welcome, though not essential.

Application details

If you would like a confidential discussion or a copy of the Position Description, contact employment@ara.net.au.

Applications close on 23 June 2026 and should include a current CV and a brief cover letter explaining your fit for the role.

ARA encourages applications from candidates based anywhere in New Zealand, with Wellington or Auckland preferred.

Candidates seeking a 0.4 FTE arrangement, equal to two days per week, will also be considered. If appointed on that basis, duties will be adjusted to match the agreed hours while still focusing on the role’s core objectives.

About you

• Extensive background in senior policy, government relations or industry association roles
• Strong knowledge of New Zealand government and parliamentary processes
• Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder management ability
• Strategic judgment and clear decision-making
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work autonomously, balance multiple priorities and deliver results
• Relevant tertiary qualifications in public policy, communications, law, social sciences or a similar discipline are highly regarded