Mo te tunga | About the role
The Principal Advisor Business Operations is responsible for providing critical thinking capability and advice to the Defence Shared Services Group (DSSG) Leadership team on a wide range of strategic, operational, risk and policy matters.
You will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the DSSG Strategic Direction, Operating Model and the transformation journey of Defence Shared Services is effectively implemented. You will do this by working across the business, forward planning with purpose and having an enterprise view of all strategic priorities. There may be instances where you will lead the development and execution of strategic priorities. You will contribute to a great DSSG culture, which encourages inclusiveness, a willingness to experiment, to innovate, make pragmatic decisions, take initiative and create unique opportunities in line with the Strategic Direction.
You will engage with DSSG senior leaders to provide them thought leadership and advice on risk, communications and strategic priorities. You will ensure they are supported to be effective leaders to enable innovation and direction of their teams to successfully meet and maintain customer and organisational needs, executing the business model and vision for the operation of DSSG and its business partners.
This is a fixed term opportunity covering parental leave until 19 June 2026.
Applications may be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.
Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience
Your experience engaging, persuading and influencing senior leadership effectively will be key to your success. You will be a strategic thinker who is able to make the connections between various aspects of the organisation and consider implications for their business unit. You will have the ability to engage with stakeholders to understand and influence prioritisation to develop pragmatic and realistic delivery roadmaps.
You will also have:
- Strong prioritisation skills with a future focus and results driven mind-set.
- Experience in developing and implementing strategy for medium to large sized organisations.
- Experience and knowledge of strategic principles/disciplines.
- The flexibility to travel as required.
- A Class 1 Full Driver's License.
Experience in a Shared Services and/or operational environment is advantageous but not essential.
Nou te rourou | What's in it for you
Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning - safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.
NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all - irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics - NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.
Me pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply
Applications close on Friday 5 September 2025.
Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.
Please Note:
- All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
- Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
- Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.
NZDF Employees/Members - please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.
NZDF Contractors - please apply via the Defence Careers website.
NZDF Reserves - please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.
Please Note:
To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here's what you need to know:
Low Level Security Clearance
- You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
- At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last five (5) years.
- You must have a five (5) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.
If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.