Title:  General Manager Strategy

General Manager Strategy 

• Keep KiwiRail on the right track to a stronger future
• Permanent full-time role 
• Flexible location – based at one of our main offices in Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch. 

Position Description

He kōrero mō mātou | About us
At KiwiRail, we’re proud to connect communities and deliver sustainable growth for Aotearoa. For more than 150 years, rail has supported New Zealanders by moving goods and people across the country, while helping shape our nation’s economy and environment.  Our purpose—Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mo Aotearoa (Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand)—guides us to create value for our customers, communities, and people. With over 4,500 staff, safety, wellbeing, and teamwork are at the heart of everything we do.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role

We’re looking for a strategic leader to help shape KiwiRail’s future. As General Manager Strategy, you will:

•    Lead the development, refinement, and execution of KiwiRail’s corporate strategy.
•    Partner with the CEO, Board, and Executive Team to define direction, monitor progress, and ensure alignment with our purpose and growth ambitions.
•    Deliver market, customer, and policy insights to support decision-making and position KiwiRail for long-term success.
•    Oversee major strategic initiatives, ensuring they are customer-led, commercially sound, and aligned across the organisation.
•    Build and mentor a high-performing strategy team to deliver lasting impact.
•    Provide thought leadership and clear narratives to influence stakeholders inside and outside KiwiRail.

Your role will ensure that KiwiRail’s transformation remains on track, delivering sustainable outcomes for Aotearoa.

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What you will bring

You’ll be a collaborative and forward-thinking strategist with:

•    15+ years’ experience in corporate strategy, planning, management consulting, or business transformation.
•    Proven success developing and delivering strategy in large, complex organisations.
•    Strong ability to distil complex information into clear, evidence-based insights for senior leaders and Boards.
•    Experience in market and competitive analysis, risk management, and enterprise transformation.
•    Leadership experience building and guiding high-performing, engaged teams.
•    Strong commercial acumen and financial modelling skills.
•    Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with confidence influencing at all levels.
•    A bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance, or a related field (MBA or postgraduate qualification highly desirable).

Experience in rail, transport, or infrastructure services is an advantage, but not essential.

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you

At KiwiRail, you’ll play a central role in shaping the future of an organisation vital to New Zealand. You’ll benefit from:

•    A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
•    The chance to directly influence national transport strategy and transformation.
•    Professional development and career growth opportunities.
•    Working alongside an experienced and collaborative Executive Team.
•    Being part of an organisation committed to safety, sustainability, and inclusion.

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to make a difference?

If you’re ready to shape KiwiRail’s strategic direction and create stronger connections for Aotearoa, we’d love to hear from you. Apply online with your CV and cover letter.

Application close Monday 22 September 2025