Manager, People Partnering
Wellington-based | Nationwide team leadership | Salary: $160,911 – $224,304
At the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA), we’re looking for an exceptional people leader to play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality, people-focused HR services that support the success of our organisation and our people across Aotearoa.
Why join us?
At CAA, meaningful work, collaboration and innovation come together to help keep New Zealand’s skies safe and secure. We’re a modern, intelligence-led regulator that is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of the aviation sector and the communities we serve.
Recent legislative changes and a strategic realignment have created exciting new opportunities to build a stronger, more agile organisation. We’re committed to developing smarter, risk-based approaches; while ensuring we deliver value-for-money and support sustainable economic growth in aviation.
We place people at the centre of what we do – including how we lead, partner, and grow.
About the role
We have a newly created opportunity for a Manager, People Partnering within our People and Capability Group. This role leads a nationwide team of Advisors People and Recruitment professionals, delivering both operational and strategic HR advice, coaching, and tailored people solutions to support business outcomes across Civil Aviation Authority.
As Manager, People Partnering, you will:
- Lead and empower a dispersed team of HR professionals across New Zealand
- Partner closely with senior leaders to enhance organisational performance through people
- Foster a high-performing, people-first culture within your team and across the business
- Help shape and implement organisation-wide people strategies in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
You’ll be a trusted leader, able to think strategically while remaining connected to the realities of people’s day-to-day experience. Travel across New Zealand will be required to connect with your team and key stakeholders.
What we’re looking for
We’re keen to hear from seasoned people leaders and experienced HR generalists who:
- Have a strong track record in strategic HR partnering, ideally in a public sector or a Crown entity setting
- Understand the full employee lifecycle and how to design people strategies that deliver real results
- Are passionate about building high-performing teams and creating inclusive, supportive environments
- Are effective communicators and collaborators – skilled at working with ambiguity and leading through change
You’ll also bring:
- Demonstrated success partnering with senior leaders to align people strategies with business goals
- A people-centric approach to HR delivery – putting wellbeing and development at the forefront
- Proven ability to lead and develop geographically dispersed teams
- Experience navigating complex or ambiguous environments with confidence and agility
- A drive for continuous improvement and simplifying systems and processes
- Strategic thinking, practical problem-solving, and the ability to influence across all levels
- The ability to role model professionalism, integrity and a values-based leadership approach
What we offer
- A supportive and inclusive team culture where your voice matters
- A genuinely impactful role helping shape the future of aviation safety and regulation in New Zealand
- A commitment to your development as a leader
- A flexible, hybrid working environment
- A salary band from $160,911 to $224,304, with starting point based on your skills and experience
How to apply
Please apply online by submitting your CV and a tailored cover letter. Your cover letter will be an important part of our assessment process – please take the opportunity to outline how your experience and approach align with the key skills and values required for this role. Please apply via our Careers site. We are unable to consider email applications.
We’re committed to inclusive recruitment practices. If you have any accessibility needs or require support during the recruitment process, please let us know – we want to ensure everyone has a fair and equitable experience.
Our Values
Professionalism | Respect | Integrity | Transparency | Collaboration
These values guide how we work and how we treat each other. We believe our people are our greatest strength, and we’re committed to creating an environment where everyone feels respected, valued and empowered to contribute.
