People Advisory Lead

About the Role

This newly established role offers a unique opportunity to enhance, streamline, and reinforce HR practices within the organization. As the People Advisory Lead, you will leverage your expertise in HR advisory to boost leadership capabilities and ensure consistency, quality, and efficiency in people management processes.

NZTE supports flexible hybrid working arrangements to promote work-life balance and provides 5 weeks of annual leave. Candidates can be based out of any of the New Zealand Trade and Enterprise offices nationwide.

Organization Overview

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), known as Te Taurapa Tūhono, is a government body dedicated to aiding New Zealand companies in global expansion. By assisting these businesses, NZTE contributes to economic growth and enhances New Zealand's global reputation.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate closely with NZTE leaders to assist with the delivery of people advisory services, including regular initiatives and cyclical activities.
• Coach and empower leaders to confidently manage people-related issues, promoting ownership and accountability.
• Partner with People Business Partners, Payroll, Talent Acquisition, regional teams, and external vendors such as legal advisors to provide comprehensive support.
• Manage employment frameworks and local terms and conditions, including reviews, documentation, workflow oversight, legal coordination, and approval processes.
• Lead employment relations activities end-to-end, ensuring precise documentation and timely, risk-aware advice that supports leader autonomy.
• Maintain and develop high-quality documentation such as letters, agreements, templates, consultation materials, and change management guidance.
• Support organizational change initiatives by preparing documentation and ensuring processes are compliant, well-structured, and efficiently executed.
• Establish disciplined workflow management and visibility for recurring people processes, including reviews, official information act requests, parliamentary inquiries, and contract records.
• Continuously improve templates, standard operating procedures, and documentation, seeking ways to simplify and enhance workflows.
• Identify and implement AI and automation-driven solutions to increase process quality, speed, and consistency.
• Take an active role in supporting or leading end-to-end people-related projects.
• Enable leaders through coaching, practical tools, and guidance that reduces dependency on the HR team for routine matters.
• Perform other relevant duties aligned with the role's scope as requested.

Candidate Profile and Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years' experience in HR with at least 1-2 years in a senior HR advisory or people leadership capacity.
• In-depth knowledge of employment frameworks, policies, approval mechanisms, and importance of precise documentation.
• Proven expertise as a senior Employment Relations advisor managing ER processes and offering pragmatic, considered guidance.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills to maintain effective internal and external stakeholder engagements.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities to ensure timely and quality execution of people processes.
• Ability to work calmly and effectively in fast-paced, ambiguous environments, exercising sound judgment when interpreting policies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to articulate concepts and recommendations clearly.
• A commitment to continuous improvement, with a focus on simplifying procedures and enhancing workflows and tools.
• Technologically adept with proficiency in AI and digital solutions to optimize people management tasks.
• Experience working in global or multi-jurisdictional settings is advantageous.

Note: The role involves supporting both New Zealand and international stakeholders, so flexibility is essential.

Why Join NZTE?

• Work in a truly international environment engaging with over 100 countries and diverse cultures.
• Benefit from flexible working arrangements supported by modern technology to balance personal and professional life.
• Enjoy 5 weeks of annual leave to recharge and pursue personal interests.
• Access robust career development opportunities and a culture that encourages learning, experimentation, and advancement.
• Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that values all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives.

Additional Information

This position is located in Wellington, New Zealand, and classified at New Zealand Level 17. Applicants must have the legal right to work and reside in New Zealand.

If accommodations are needed during the recruitment process, applicants are encouraged to mention these when applying or contact the Talent Acquisition Specialist.