Chief Science Strategy Officer

Overview

Earth Sciences NZ was established on 1 July 2025 through the merger of GNS and NIWA, with the upcoming acquisition of MetService further strengthening its capabilities.

Bringing together multidisciplinary expertise and advanced technology, it will excel in earth, environmental, and natural resources science across six core missions : Geological Hazards, Weather and Climate, Energy, Land and Freshwater, Atmosphere and Climate, and Oceans.

This new entity forms part of the most significant reform to New Zealand's science and innovation system in more than three decades, designed to create a more dynamic, collaborative, and impactful science system.

Following the acquisition of MetService, Earth Sciences NZ will comprise around 1,500 staff across 22 sites, with assets of approximately $400 million and annual revenues of $370 million, including substantial commercial streams.

This provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of science delivery for Aotearoa New Zealand and position the organisation as a globally recognised leader in its field.

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The Role

Earth Sciences NZ is seeking an exceptional Chief Science Strategy Officer (CSSO) to join the newly established executive leadership team.

This is a critical, influential senior leadership role, responsible for setting and delivering the organisation's science vision and strategy.

The CSSO will unify six science missions into a compelling, cohesive narrative, guiding capability development and investment decisions to ensure Earth Sciences NZ delivers the greatest impact for New Zealand and beyond.

The role has significant leadership impact and accountability :

Lead the design and execution of a cohesive, future-focused science strategy across six missions.

Shape a unified science vision that drives innovation, impact, and financial success.

Oversee the development of the organisation's revenue strategy, including research funding and commercial funding contracts.

Inspire high-performing leaders and teams to deliver excellence and collaboration.

Build influential relationships with industry, iwi, government, and global science partners.

This is both a science and commercial leadership role, requiring a highly credible leader who can command respect within the science community and across industry, government, and international stakeholders.

Background, Skills and Experience

The ideal candidate will be a recognised science leader with strategic vision, commercial acumen, and the ability to unite diverse disciplines into a compelling science strategy.

Deep scientific expertise with a PhD (or equivalent) and an established national / international reputation.

Proven leadership of large, complex science organisations, ideally with multi-site and multi-disciplinary scope.

Track record of turning science into products, services, and revenue growth.

Strong stakeholder engagement capability with industry, iwi, government, and international partners.

Ability to lead leaders, inspire collaboration, and deliver impact through science.

A demonstrated commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Maori partnerships.

This is a rare and meaningful leadership opportunity to support positioning New Zealand as a leader in earth science research and innovation.

Applications close at 5.00pm NZT on Friday 3rd October 2025

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