Senior Advisor, People

At the Civil Aviation Authority, we don’t just keep New Zealand’s skies safe and secure, we help shape the future of aviation. As the industry evolves, so do we, through innovative technology, new ways of working, and a team of people who are passionate about what they do. Now’s the time to get on board. We’re building a forward-thinking, modern CAA, and we need people who want their work to matter. People who thrive on challenges, value collaboration, and want to make a positive impact every day. If you're ready to grow your career while helping keep one of New Zealand’s most vital sectors safe and secure, this is your opportunity.

The opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Senior Advisor, People to join our People and Capability Group in Wellington. In this role, you will act as a trusted ‘business partner’ and coach to leaders across your portfolio — providing timely, high-quality advice, support, and solutions across the full range of people and employment matters. You will help managers build confidence in their people leadership, navigate employment relations issues with care and fairness, and foster strong, engaged teams. This role combines strategic partnering with hands-on delivery, giving you the chance to make a real difference every day.

What you will be doing

• Build strong, collaborative relationships with managers to provide coaching and support on people leadership and management.
• Deliver trusted advice across a wide range of People functions — including employment relations, performance, development, remuneration, change management, and engagement.
• Support leaders to apply employment law, collective agreements, and CAA policies with confidence and consistency.
• Help managers to effectively address performance, conduct, and change matters, promoting fair and constructive outcomes.
• Partner with the wider People and Capability team to deliver integrated, best-practice people solutions.
• Mentor and guide Advisors to develop capability and ensure a high standard of support across the organisation.
• Contribute to people-related projects and initiatives that strengthen organisational culture and capability.

What you will bring

We are looking for a confident, credible and experienced HR professional who combines sound technical knowledge with strong relationship and coaching skills. You will bring:

• Extensive experience in a senior HR advisory or business partnering role within a complex organisation.
• Strong working knowledge of employment relations and New Zealand employment legislation.
• The ability to provide clear, practical, and solutions-focused advice to managers and leaders.
• Proven experience supporting change, performance, and engagement initiatives.
• Strong influencing and communication skills, with the ability to build trust quickly.
• A tertiary qualification in Human Resources, Employment Relations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

The salary range for this role is $115 536 to $135 197. The starting salary will be dependent on your skills and experience and will take into account internal relativities within the team.

Why join us

At the CAA, our work has real purpose — keeping people safe in New Zealand’s skies. You will join a collaborative, values-driven team that’s passionate about making a difference. We offer:

• A supportive, inclusive environment that values diversity and wellbeing.
• Work that’s meaningful, challenging, and impactful.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Our Values – Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Transparency, and Collaboration – represent the standards of behaviour we uphold and guide how we work at the Authority. We embrace diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive environment where our people feel respected, safe, and valued for their unique contributions. We recognise that our people drive our success.

If you are an experienced HR professional who enjoys both the strategic and practical sides of people partnering — and you’re ready to help shape the people experience at the CAA — we’d love to hear from you. 

When applying, please complete the online application form with your CV and Cover Letter. Please note that your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so highlight how your experience aligns with the key skills required for this role.

We are committed to ensuring accessibility throughout the recruitment process. If there is any support, we can provide to ensure the process is equitable and accessible for you, please let us know. For more information on the role, please view the position description. For any questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at [email protected]

Applications close: Sunday 16/11/2025.

Apply now