• Industry-led, standards-driven, sector-focused
• Shape the future of vocational education in construction and the specialist trades
• Lead a high-impact organisation at a pivotal moment

The Construction and Specialist Trades Industry Skills Board (CSTISB) is seeking an experienced and credible Chief Executive to lead the organisation through its next chapter.

Mō mātou | About us

The CSTISB is one of eight Industry Skills Boards established by the Government on 1 January 2026. ISBs give industries a direct say in work-based learning, ensuring that training delivers the right skills for the workplace.

The CSTISB covers construction and infrastructure – a sector that builds and sustains the physical fabric of Aotearoa New Zealand. We set standards, endorse programmes, moderate assessments, and advise on workforce needs. Our work supports a diverse, adaptable workforce ready for today’s projects and tomorrow’s challenges.

We are an industry-led organisation with an active board, a capable team, and an ambitious work programme. The CSTISB also has a strong commitment to supporting Māori talent in construction and infrastructure, and to giving effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi in all that we do.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

This is a senior leadership role with genuine scope. As Chief Executive you will be responsible for the operational delivery of the CSTISB’s functions, while working closely with the board to set strategic direction.

We are looking for a leader who combines sector credibility with organisational capability and a real desire to make a difference for industry. This is a unique leadership opportunity at the intersection of industry, education and government, helping ensure qualifications, skills and workforce development meet the needs of both businesses and learners. You will be motivated by creating long-term impact and helping shape the future workforce of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the development, review, and maintenance of qualifications, unit standards, and micro-credentials for the construction and specialist trades sectors
• Overseeing programme endorsement, moderation, and assurance functions
• Building and sustaining high-quality relationships with industry, training providers, government agencies, and Māori and Pasifika stakeholders
• Advising the board on workforce needs, sector trends, and emerging priorities
• Ensuring the CSTISB meets its statutory obligations and operates with sound governance
• Leading a small, expert team and managing the organisation’s resources effectively
• Representing the CSTISB across the vocational education sector, including with TEC, other ISBs, and the Ministry of Education

Ko wai koe | About you

We are looking for a leader who combines sector credibility with organisational capability and a real desire to make a difference for industry. You will bring:

• Proven senior leadership experience, ideally in a sector-facing, standards-setting, or industry body context
• Strong understanding of the construction, infrastructure, or specialist trades industries – or the ability to build that credibility quickly
• Familiarity with the vocational education system and its policy and regulatory environment
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work effectively across industry, government, and training providers
• Sound governance instincts and experience working alongside or reporting to a board
• A practical, delivery-focused approach and the ability to lead a small team at pace
• An understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a genuine commitment to Māori workforce development
• A curious and adaptable leadership style, with the ability to leverage data, technology and innovation to help a small organisation achieve meaningful impact.

This is a Wellington based role.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

For a copy of the candidate information pack, please contact Joi Terhart at joi@amytea.co.nz or 021 268 9683. All enquiries will be handled with discretion.

To apply, please email your cover letter and CV (preferably in PDF format) to apply@amytea.co.nz

Applications close Sunday 5 July 2026.

Please be assured that a human will carefully read every application. We encourage judicious use of AI.

You must have the right to live and work in Aotearoa New Zealand to apply for this role.