Manager, System Capability
Type: Fixed-Term 2 years
Location: Wellington
Lead system-wide strategies to enhance New Zealand's emergency management capability, fostering professionalisation and meaningful change.
Ko wai m tou | About us
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) provides national leadership to New Zealand's distributed emergency management system. Our primary focus is on the performance and capability of the emergency management system as a whole, across the 4Rs-risk reduction, readiness, response and recovery.We value diversity and inclusion and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We support flexible working arrangements and value the contributions of people from all backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives.NEMA is committed to our obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. We actively seek to integrate te ao M ori principles into our work and empower iwi M ori in the emergency management system.
Mo tenei turanga mahi | About this role
As Manager, System Capability, you will lead the development and implementation of strategies and frameworks to enhance the capability and capacity of New Zealand's emergency management system. This includes developing initiatives to professionalise the emergency management workforce, designing training frameworks, and collaborating with stakeholders to build system capability.
Key aspects of the role include:
- Developing an architecture to professionalise and build the capability and capacity of NEMA and the EM system
- Developing and implementing a unified training framework that integrates standalone training courses into a structured system.
- Enhancing workforce professionalisation through competency-based development pathways and certification frameworks.
- Building and nurturing relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including CDEM Groups, education providers, and iwi partners.
- Leading and developing a team of professionals within the System Capability Unit, ensuring high performance and staff wellbeing.
- Contributing to NEMA's leadership team and helping shape organisational strategy across the 4Rs.
As NEMA has an operational mandate, you may also be required to support emergency response and recovery during emergencies. This could involve long hours, shift work, and unpredictable conditions. Thorough training and support will be provided.
Ko wai koe | About you
To be successful in this role, you will be a proven leader with a strategic vision and commitment to capability building across complex systems. You will also have:
- Proven experience in developing professionalisation frameworks, training architectures, and integrated capability systems.
- Solid knowledge of adult learning principles and competency-based training methodologies.
- Strong stakeholder relationship management and collaboration skills, with experience working across diverse sectors.
- Demonstrated leadership ability, including leading high-performing teams and embedding a positive culture.
- Experience applying evidence-based innovation to capability-building initiatives.
- Resilience, agility and curiosity.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to engage and influence at senior levels.
Desirable:
- Experience in emergency management, public safety, or related operational roles.
- Familiarity with the Coordinated Incident Management System (CIMS), the CDEM Act 2002, and relevant frameworks.
- A strong commitment to incorporating M ori perspectives into systems and processes.
Huanga Whaiaro | Key requirements
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Adaptability to change and dynamic work environments.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality outputs under pressure.
- Confidence, professionalism, and integrity in all interactions.
Ta matou e tuku | What we offer
We are committed to fostering a collaborative, inclusive workplace where staff are supported to develop their potential. At NEMA, diversity is seen as a strength, and we actively encourage innovation and excellence. Our staff wellbeing initiatives and flexible working opportunities help you thrive both at work and in life.
The indicative remuneration for this role is $202,295 - $220,897 including KiwiSaver contributions. Additional benefits on top of this REM include departmental leave days, discounted health insurance and more
Whakaritenga Haumaru | Security requirements
This role requires the successful applicant to be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident. Pre-employment checks (e.g., criminal and credit checks) are required.
Me pehea te tono | How to apply
Please select 'Apply' to download a position description or apply. If you have any questions, contact Kim at [email protected]. We do not accept unsolicited approaches from agencies or 3rd parties.
Applications close: 5pm Monday 11th Aujgust 2025
