28 Nov
Public Defence Service - New Zealand
Wellington
Te Haeata/The Opportunity
The Justice Sector Leadership Board (JSLB) is seeking an outstanding leader to serve as Executive Director for the Justice Sector Directorate.
Job Description
This is a rare opportunity to drive transformation across six government agencies—Ministry of Justice, NZ Police, Department of Corrections, Oranga Tamariki, Crown Law Office, and Serious Fraud Office—working together to deliver accessible justice and better outcomes for all New Zealanders.
As Executive Director, you will be the lead adviser to the JSLB, and responsible for the delivery and performance of the justice sector directorate. Reporting to the Secretary for Justice, you will provide strategic leadership, oversee sector priorities and initiatives, and be a trusted adviser to the JSLB on sector strategy, performance, and investment. You will represent the Board in key institutional relationships, including Crown-Māori relationships, and foster a collaborative, transparent, and empowering culture across the sector.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the sector's strategic planning and transformation, ensuring alignment with government priorities.
- Oversee the development, implementation, and monitoring of sector strategies, investments, and performance reporting.
- Influence and collaborate with key stakeholders, including Ministers, agency leaders, and community partners.
- Drive cross-agency initiatives and continuous improvement in systems, processes, and service delivery.
- Provide expert advice to the JSLB, Ministers, and other stakeholders.
- Build and develop high-performing teams, championing talent management and a positive work environment.
- Ensure robust health and safety leadership and compliance.
Ō Pūkenga/Skills And Experience
As a Tier 2 leader, you will provide strategic direction and system‑wide leadership, ensuring alignment with the JSLB's purpose and long‑term priorities.
This role requires someone who will lead with influence, foster collaboration across groups, and drive organisational performance at scale. You will champion change and innovation, cultivate an inclusive, high‑performing culture, and deliver ambitious outcomes through others—drawing on your proven executive experience, sound judgment, and ability to navigate complex environments with credibility and impact.
We Are Seeking Applicants Who Will Bring
- Advanced experience in strategy development, performance monitoring, and cross‑sector leadership.
- Deep understanding of the machinery of government and experience working with Ministers and Boards.
- Solid awareness in Te Ao Māori context and a commitment to improving outcomes for Māori.
- Exceptional communication skills and the ability to credibly represent the sector in external forums.
Mō Mātou/About Us
At the Ministry of Justice - Te Tāhū o te Ture, we're committed to strengthening people's trust in the law. The Justice Sector Leadership Board was established to support the collective efforts of the justice sector. It is responsible for ensuring the achievement of collective goals. It coordinates major change programmes and oversees planning to improve services, reduce harm in the criminal justice system, maintain institutions and manage investment. The Leadership Board is supported by Justice Sector Directorate within the Ministry of Justice. Joining the Ministry means you will become part of an organisation that welcomes and supports people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities and religions.
Tono mai/Apply
To apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.
Applications close on 19 January 2026 . If you have any questions, please contact
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📌 Executive Director, Sector Directorate (Wellington)
🏢 Public Defence Service - New Zealand
📍 Wellington
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