Manager, Talent & Organisational Development

Role overview

This fixed-term position runs until 30 June 2027 and is based in Wellington. The role sits within the Talent and Organisational Development unit and is focused on shaping NEMA’s organisational design, culture, leadership, and talent strategy. It also supports evidence-based process improvements that strengthen planning, capability, and capacity across the organisation.

What the role involves

• Providing high-level strategic guidance to the Executive Leadership Team on people, culture, leadership, and talent priorities.
• Helping the Senior Management Team strengthen organisational health, capability, and culture.
• Working closely with the ELT, SMT, people leaders, DIA HR, and the Talent & OD function to deliver strategic goals and manage change well.
• Partnering with SMT to set annual Talent and Organisational Development priorities, allocate resources, and track delivery against agreed outcomes.

Working environment

NEMA is an operational agency, so the role may require supporting emergency activations during a national emergency response. In such situations, the position may involve long hours and difficult working conditions. The response function for this role includes leading the Health & Wellbeing sub-function.

Because NEMA operates in a highly dynamic emergency management setting, the team often needs to shift priorities quickly. Day-to-day success in this role depends on adaptability, agility, resilience, and curiosity.

About NEMA

The National Emergency Management Agency provides national leadership for New Zealand’s distributed emergency management system. Its work spans all hazards and risks, with a focus on the four Rs: risk reduction, readiness, response, and recovery. NEMA is committed to diversity, inclusion, and strengthening te ao Māori perspectives and capability in its work, values, and practices.

Salary and benefits

The indicative base salary for this position is between $174,000 and $213,000. Additional benefits include departmental leave, a wellbeing allowance, vision allowances, and other employee support offerings. NEMA also promotes staff wellbeing, safety, and a healthy work-life balance.

Security and eligibility

Because of the security requirements attached to this position, applicants must be a New Zealand citizen or a New Zealand permanent resident.

Additional information

This is a fixed-term role through to 30 June 2027. Applicants should submit their application by 5:00 pm on Wednesday 22 July. Questions about the role can be directed to NEMATalent@nema.govt.nz. Unsolicited approaches from agencies or third parties will not be accepted.