Title:  Manager, Policy and Stakeholder

Manager, Policy and Stakeholder

Position Description

• Focus on influencing policy development, central and local government engagement
• Commercial and relationship development strengths
• Wellington or Auckland based, potentially open to other locations for the right candidate

He kōrero mō mātou | About us:

At KiwiRail, we connect New Zealanders sustainably, powering economic growth and ensuring vital freight and passenger services run smoothly. Our mission, "Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand," highlights our dedication to sustainability and community well-being. 

Our people make KiwiRail exceptional. By fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace, we empower everyone to contribute their best. If you’re passionate about innovation and safety, we’d love to welcome you aboard. 

He whakamārama mo te tūranga mahi | About the role:

Our Manager, Policy and Stakeholder will support KiwiRail strategy by building our internal policy capability and working with agencies to ensure that a rail perspective is represented within broader transport policy.  Alongside the Group Manager, you will ensure the Executive and Board are well advised on policy matters impacting rail.

This role includes:

• Strengthening engagement across local government and agencies in the transport, infrastructure and urban development sectors
• Working with relevant agencies on policy development and other research, studies and working groups that impact rail or infrastructure
• Providing insightful and compelling advice on rail or infrastructure

You will be an internal specialist in the machinery of central and local government and will support KiwiRail business units to understand and work within government frameworks.  Key will be strengthening our relationships with local government as we implement the new planning and funding model and deliver on our Rail Network Investment Programme.

This is a key leadership role within KiwiRail and has specific responsibility for:

• Creating and communicating the agreed shared outlook for KiwiRail
• Creating and enhancing an engaged culture throughout KiwiRail
• Keeping the business tightly controlled while driving an attitude of growth and improvement
• Creating visible, key information so that it is easily shared and understood by the business as a whole

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What (skills) you will bring:

Experience

• You bring at least ten years’ experience in policy development and management in the transport sector
• You have extensive experience in relationship management at a senior level and ability to communicate effectively across senior management, boards, staff, elected officials and external stakeholder groups
• You understand how KiwiRail interacts with other agencies and the Government
• You’re an excellent written and verbal communicator including the ability to prepare Board and Ministerial level reports and briefings
• You have a track record of strategic partnership with senior management, including influencing and challenging decisions
• You have a successful track record within the core public sector including significant experience in transport and/or infrastructure policy and public sector business case and funding proposals and reporting.
• You understand financial and funding policies
• You have knowledge of the conventions, structure and functions of Government
• You have project management experience

Ways of working / Work-related qualities

• You make good decisions and are politically aware
• You communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels, fostering a culture of transparency and trust
• You're flexible and practical
• You’re have experience in managing risk
• You demonstrate resilience and adaptability, working effectively under pressure and navigating organisational change
• You’re confident building trusted relationships

Qualifications

• It is desirable you have a relevant degree in public policy

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:

• Competitive salary plus 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution
• Professional development opportunities to help you grow and succeed
• Access to NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust benefits, including holiday homes, medical support and discounted travel
• Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace dedicated to innovation, sustainability and community impact

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?

Rā aukati | Applications close: 10 August 2025