Executive Assistant

Position Title:  Executive Assistant  

Group:  Policy

Position Type:  Fixed-term to 30 June 2026 (38 hours per week, working to 5pm each day)

Location:  Wellington CBD

Salary: Up to $94,000 per annum (+ KiwiSaver)

About the Ministry of Transport | He kupu mō mātou Te Manatū Waka

The Ministry of Transport is an impartial, expert and trusted adviser to government, shaping transport for New Zealand. We work to deliver a well-functioning transport system that helps grow New Zealand’s economy and productivity. The Ministry’s values are integrity, excellence and collaboration.

About the opportunity | Ngā whakamārama mō te tūnga

In this executive support role, you will provide high-level professional services and build a strategic partnership with the Deputy Chief Executive (DCE) of the Ministry’s Policy Group. You’ll keep things running smoothly by managing schedules, coordinating priorities and working with the wider EA cohort and Policy Group so your DCE can focus on leading the group and delivering on the Government’s priorities.

The Policy Group leads the provision of high-quality policy advice on many of the key priorities of the day, translating long term strategic priorities into practical policy interventions.

Key responsibilities include:

• Building a strategic partnership with the Deputy Chief Executive to be a confidential and trusted adviser
• Ensuring your DCE is kept up to date is issues, priorities and developments and effective communication channels and administrative systems are in place
• Providing effective diary and email management
• Ensuring all papers and briefings are available and prioritised for the DCE to review.
• Arranging and coordinating meetings, taking minutes and following up actions
• Providing administrative support, organising functions and arranging travel
• Supporting more junior business support members.

This is a Wellington-based role, and we’re looking for somone who can work on-site. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain insights into Ministry’s operations and the wider transport sector. 

What you’ll bring | Te wāhi ki a koe

• Previous Executive Assistant experience supporting a senior leader, preferably in the public sector
• Calm, with the ability to cope with change while effectively managing relationships
• A high level of proficiency across the Microsoft Office suite
• Experience of working in government, a sound understanding of the role of the public services and working with Ministers and other government departments and agencies.
• Outstanding organisational, prioritisation and time management skills
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral and a high-level attention to detail
• Proven ability to build genuine, strong relationships and collaborate effectively across all levels of an organisation

This opportunity would suit someone who is looking to settle into a small and agile environment and enjoys building genuine relationships.

Salary range | Whānuitanga Utu ā-Tau

The salary range is up to $94,000. The salary offered will be based on your skills and experience and team relativities.

What we offer | Te wāhi ki a mātou

You’ll be joining a small and agile agency with a flat structure and a strong focus on continuous improvement, where everyone plays a key role in shaping our success. You’ll have the chance to make your own mark and make a real difference helping our leaders deliver of priorities that matter.

You’ll receive a range of employee benefits including:

• Health and wellbeing benefits to support your overall wellness
• Modern offices with collaborative working spaces to support teamwork
• Laptop and mobile
• Access to range of inclusive and supportive employee networks.

Join us and be a part of our passionate ministry, shaping the future of transport in New Zealand.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tono mai

To view the job description, or apply online, click Apply. Please include a CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant skills and experience.

To apply for this role, you must have right to live and work in New Zealand. You will need to be based in Wellington or ready to relocate. Locations outside of Wellington will not be considered.

Applications close midnight, Monday 19 January 2026.

For further information or to speak confidentially, please contact Sharyn Forty (Senior Executive Assistant) at s.forty@transport.govt.nz.

We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds, orientations, and identities. We aim to have a Ministry that represents the wider New Zealand that we serve. We champion diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels relevant, valued, supported and a sense of belonging.

For any support or accessibility needs during our recruitment process, please contact us at applications@transport.govt.nz