Commission General Counsel

Overview

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) is a widely respected and influential independent Crown entity. As a quasi-judicial authority, TAIC’s primary role is to determine the circumstances and causes of transport accidents and incidents to avoid similar occurrences. Its vision is “No repeat accidents - ever!”

As a standing commission of inquiry, TAIC works across the aviation, rail and maritime transport sectors. Its functions include investigation, inquiry, and publication of findings and recommendations, for each occurrence TAIC investigates.

The Commission supports New Zealand’s compliance with several international treaties and continues to build and develop its global relationships. This includes close relationships with Australia and several Pacific nations, as well as assisting countries further afield with their investigations.

Reporting to the Chief Executive and leading a specialist team, the Commission General Counsel advises the Commission and the Board on all inquiry matters, including constitutional frameworks and appropriate inquiry protocols. As a member of the Executive Team, this role holds collective accountability for TAIC’s strategy and the delivery of its work programme.

Your responsibilities will include the provision of timely, impartial and principled legal advice that upholds the Commission’s statutory purpose and functions. This includes providing input to investigations and Crown entity matters that traverse international, administrative and transport law. You will also offer the capacity to exercise judgement, articulate complex issues, and influence through the provision of strategic, authoritative advice.

The following capabilities and profile are also sought :

• Proven leadership experience as a member of, or working to, an executive team
• Strong public sector experience, with a deep understanding of machinery of government, and related policy and regulatory frameworks
• Extensive legal experience spanning legal disciplines such as public, transport, administrative and / or international law
• Highly nuanced relationship management skills
• Prior exposure working to a board
• Professional legal qualifications including the ability to hold a current NZ practicing certificate

This role is based in Wellington.

Confidential enquiries and applications should be directed to Vishnu Nair or Guy Brew at Ichor Leadership Search by 5.00pm on Tuesday 7 October 2025. Email us at or call +64 .

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