Mo te tunga | About the role
The Directorate of HR Policy, Remuneration and Benefits is responsible for developing strategic remuneration, benefits and HR policy direction for the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).
This fixed term opportunity, through to 30 June 2026, will see you supported by a professional dedicated team.
The key purpose of the role is to work end to end across the remuneration function, leading the planning and delivery of remuneration policy, advice and initiatives and partnering with key stakeholders across the organisation to manage our remuneration framework, apply expertise to complex issues, and provide advice to our leadership teams.
You will ensure that remuneration policies and implementation plans are workable and support NZDF priorities. You will manage the development of capability within your team and the ongoing performance of the team.
Key duties include:
- Leading the day to day operations and delivery of the Remuneration Team and its work programme.
- Leading and providing oversight of remuneration analysis and development.
- Leading and managing remuneration review implementation planning and delivery from both a civilian and military perspective.
- Manage a team building capability, guidance and coaching.
- Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders.
- Preparing responses to Official Information Act requests, Parliamentary Questions and Ministerial correspondence.
Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience
You will be passionate about remuneration and analytics and have considerable experience in HR and remuneration, with a strong focus or specialisation in remuneration, coupled with the ability to think creatively to find solutions.
To be successful in the role we are looking for someone who has:
- Experience in managing direct reports.
- Strong interpersonal relationship management skills with the ability to liaise and present confidently and professionally with a wide range of people.
- Extensive understanding of best practice remuneration and reward and how they can contribute to effectively rewarding and retaining talent.
- The ability to translate remuneration philosophy and strategy into appropriate recommendations for remuneration solutions.
- Experience with analysing market and employee remuneration data, and proposing courses of action based on sound analysis.
- The ability to work well in a fast-paced environment.
- A tertiary qualification in Business, HR or related discipline, or demonstrated experience in remuneration and remuneration policy delivery.
Please note: Applications will 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.
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 Monday 4 August 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.