• Fixed term to March 2027 | Auckland-based
• Strategic leadership role at a pivotal moment for industry training
• Oversight of a significant transition into the new PTE structure

Mō mātou | About Us

Competenz is one of New Zealand’s leading work-based learning organisations, supporting around 7,000 learners across 3,000 firms in 35 industry sectors.  With 158 staff and offices in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, we operate at the intersection of industry, education, and regulatory compliance – delivering vocational training that transforms lives and strengthens New Zealand’s workforce.

We are mid-way through a significant and well-supported transition programme, moving from Industry Skills Body (ISB) governance to an independent Private Training Establishment (PTE) structure.  This is a pivotal moment in our history, and we are seeking an exceptional leader to guide us through it.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Reporting to the Chair of the Manufacturing & Engineering Industry Skills Board, this role carries a dual mandate: ensuring business stability across operations, finances, and educational quality, while delivering the final stages of a transition programme that will see all training provision move to industry ownership, PTEs, or other providers by mid-2027.

It is a complex, high-impact interim appointment requiring superb leadership and engagement skills to effectively partner with TEC, NZQA, as well as key industry partners and staff.

Key priorities include:

• Leading a stable, high-performing Senior Leadership Team through a period of significant change.
• Delivering the approved transition programme, including securing NZQA PTE approval in Q3 2026 and key TEC submissions by July 2026.
• Maintaining strong stakeholder relationships across a diverse range of industry associations, regulatory bodies, and receiving entities.
• Ensuring financial performance, regulatory compliance, and board confidence throughout the transition.
• Handing over a well-positioned organisation into the new PTE structure.

The board’s preference is that the right appointee considers this role as a genuine pathway to leading Competenz 2.0 on a permanent basis.  Though this cannot be guaranteed, it is a real possibility.

The role is full-time and Auckland-based.  A fixed term to end of March 2027 is anticipated, with potential for extension.

Ko wai koe | About you

You are a senior leader with experience in work-based learning or vocational education and training.  TEC, NZQA, and the ISB framework are familiar ground.  You are credible with industry, work effectively with boards, and known for both your strategic thinking and delivery.

You will bring:

• A track record of leading high-performing senior leadership teams.
• Demonstrated success leading complex change programmes with multiple stakeholder and regulatory dimensions.
• Proven stakeholder engagement skills across industry bodies, government agencies, and receiving entities.
• A no-surprises approach to board reporting across financial performance, risk, and strategic delivery.
• Strong financial acumen and the ability to manage competing priorities at pace.
• High integrity, resilience, and the agility to balance long-term strategy with immediate operational demands.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

For a copy of the information pack please email Jo Bell at info@amytea.co.nz

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

Applications close Tuesday 28 April 2026.

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