Manager Aquaculture Policy

Job Details

Aquaculture sits at the centre of some of the most important policy issues facing New Zealand. It has a critical role to play in supporting economic growth, increasing export earnings, strengthening regional economies, and delivering meaningful opportunities for Māori. At the same time, aquaculture operates in a complex policy environment that requires careful navigation of environmental, economic, Treaty, regulatory, and community interests.

The Manager Aquaculture Policy role leads a team of approximately 7–9 staff and is responsible for a broad and high-profile work programme. This includes:
 

• Advising on aquaculture's contribution to the Government's economic objectives, including export growth.
• Leading aquaculture-related aspects of resource management reform and the future planning system.
• Developing the features of a standalone legislative regime for open ocean aquaculture.
• Supporting the Crown's responsibilities and relationships regarding Māori interests in aquaculture.
• Providing advice on wider marine policy issues as they relate to aquaculture, including biosecurity.
• Supporting effective implementation and stewardship of aquaculture-related regulatory systems.

The role offers regular engagement with Ministers and senior leaders, along with opportunities to work closely with industry organisations, iwi and Māori, local government, environmental NGOs, and agencies across government.

Requirements

Above all, this is a people leadership role. The successful applicant will be expected to lead and support a high-performing team, build capability, create a positive team culture, and help others succeed. They will need to balance delivery, wellbeing, coaching, and development while ensuring the team continues to produce high-quality policy advice in a fast-moving and often politically sensitive environment.

You will be able to have:
 

• A commitment to developing people, building capability, and fostering an inclusive team culture.
• Strong policy judgement and strategic thinking.
• Experience leading or influencing complex policy and regulatory work.
• The ability to provide high-quality advice to senior decision-makers.
• Strong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• The ability to work effectively across organisational boundaries and competing interests.

Some previous people leadership experience would be valuable, but we would also encourage applications from people who have demonstrated leadership through complex policy delivery, mentoring others, leading work programmes, or operating in senior advisory roles.

Contact Information

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Application Close Date:30-Jul-2026