- Lead New Zealand’s trade future
- Shape strategy, people and global impact
- Navigate complex trade landscapes
About the Ministry for Primary Industries - Mō te Manatū Ahu Matua
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has a vision to see New Zealand become the world's most trusted provider of high-value food and primary products.
About the Team - Mō tō mātou Rōpū
The Trade Policy, Strategy and Systems Division plays a critical role in shaping MPI’s approach to international trade. We lead on trade and economic policy and strategy, we contribute to trade negotiations and non-tariff barrier resolution, and we provide strategic advice on the domestic systems that enable New Zealand’s exports to thrive.
We also design and deliver technical cooperation programmes, especially those linked to New Zealand’s Free Trade Agreement commitments, helping build strong global relationships and supporting exporters to succeed.
About the Role - Kōrero mō te Tūranga
Reporting to the Associate Deputy Director-General Trade and International Relations, this high-profile role leads MPI’s global trade policy, free trade agreement negotiation and implementation, and international cooperation initiatives. This division is central to New Zealand’s trade voice, often acting as the “glue” across complex work programmes that include FTAs, OECD initiatives, WTO engagement, and Pacific cooperation as well as navigating sensitive trade policy developments.
This role offers the opportunity to make a tangible difference at a crucial time – both for New Zealand’s place in the global trade system and for the people you lead. The division is entering an exciting phase of its evolution, with the ability to refine its work programme, sharpen its focus, and build even greater capability. You will bring the clarity and direction to harness the team’s expertise, shaping a cohesive and high-performing group of managers and specialists who deliver across a diverse work programme.
Key responsibilities will also include:
- Ensure delivery of high-quality trade policy, strategy, advice and ministerial support.
- Lead on cross government stakeholder engagement including relationships with MFAT and NZTE.
- Ensure delivery of directorate planning, budgeting and cost recovery systems.
- Raise and drive performance by providing appropriate and ongoing direction, development opportunities, guidance, feedback and allocation of work.
- Influence and persuade people to obtain agreement where there are conflicting interests.
- Explore and maximise opportunities for collaboration in building mutually agreed strategies, objectives and work programmes.
- As an internationally-focused position, the role will also require international travel for working level discussions. This is also a Wellington based position.
About You - Mōu
We are seeking a proven leader who can balance vision, diplomacy, and delivery. You will bring a track record of leading through complexity, uniting multi-disciplinary teams, and motivating managers and specialists to perform at their best. Resilient and credible, you will enjoy navigating dynamic environments with confidence, setting clear expectations, and bringing energy and positivity to the division’s work.
Your background will ideally span both international trade and domestic regulatory environments, giving you the breadth to operate confidently across government and with industry stakeholders. Political nous and diplomacy are essential, enabling you to influence senior leaders, build trust with Ministers, and represent New Zealand effectively on the international stage.
Above all, you will be motivated by the opportunity to make an impact; developing people, shaping policy, and positioning MPI as a credible and trusted voice in New Zealand’s global trade system. A tertiary qualification in international relations, public policy, economics, or a related field is preferred, alongside a deep appreciation of the opportunities and challenges facing New Zealand exporters.
Security checks - Ngā Taki Whakahaumaru
Higher level Security Clearance
- Most preferably a New Zealand citizen who has resided continuously in New Zealand for at least the last ten (10) years , OR
- Is a citizen of, and/or has resided continuously in one or more of the following countries for the last ten (10) years : either Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK or the USA; and has a background history that is verifiable and can be assessed as appropriate by the NZSIS towards a recommendation of suitability for a security clearance at a higher level.
- Copy and paste the below links to find out more about the national security vetting process and access the eligibility self-check tool.
Eligibility self-check tool | Protective Security Requirements - lr0j0.bpmsafelink.com/c/3pnzco1q00_a0pn4klE_rw
If you do not meet these minimum criteria, we will not be able to accept your application.
Ready to Make a Difference? - Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi whaitake?
IN SIDE Recruitment are assisting the Ministry of Primary Industries with the recruitment of this role. If you are interested in this role, please apply now and include your cover letter and CV.
For a confidential discussion please contact Scott King at IN SIDE Recruitment on scott@inside.co.nz.
Applications close at 2pm on Monday 29th September.
Please note: Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory and this role requires a Ministry of Justice criminal history check.
