Senior Executive Assistant (Enterprise Services)

Senior Executive Assistant (Enterprise Services) – New Zealand Customs Service

Ready to elevate your career? We’re seeking a Senior Executive Assistant who thrives in a dynamic environment to provide essential support to our Deputy Chief Executive, Enterprise Services, driving strategic initiatives forward.

About the role

The purpose of this role is to provide high‑quality, one‑to‑one executive and administrative assistance in an advisory capacity, actively engaging with teams and projects across the organisation to ensure strategic and operational goals of the executive are met.

This role is responsible for providing executive support and advice, which aligns with Customs priorities and stakeholder expectations, along with investigating matters and providing comprehensive reporting for the Deputy Chief Executive as required. The successful candidate will apply sound judgment using personal expertise and deep knowledge of the public sector to make strategic decisions that are aligned with Customs vision and are to the Chief Executive and Ministerial standards.

You’ll play a pivotal role in managing the DCE’s schedule, ensuring their time is used effectively and efficiently. From coordinating meetings to anticipating priorities, your diary management skills will help keep things running smoothly, which will assist our DCE in staying organised and focused.

This role requires a high degree of independence, discretion and trust, judgement, initiative and self‑discipline, working effectively with other Executive Assistants and senior leaders. You will be technology savvy and seen as a credible and effective relationship builder who is comfortable working with a diverse stakeholder group.

The ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance to a “Secret” level is required for this position.

About you

This work takes a special kind of person with a passion for making a difference. The specific experience, skills, and qualities that will help you succeed in this role include :

• 7‑10+ years of experience working as an Executive Assistant within public sector organisations
• Deep knowledge of governance, risk management frameworks, and government operations—or the ability to quickly gain such understanding.
• Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality.
• Proactive mindset with strong judgment, initiative, and the capacity to anticipate needs and solve problems with a demonstrated ability to deliver timely, high‑quality outcomes.
• Outstanding interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Effective business / plain language, writing and editing skills.
• Proven ability to build trust and credibility with senior leaders and stakeholders.
• Strong customer service orientation and commitment to providing quality support.
• Well‑developed analytical skills with the ability to absorb and assess complex information.
• Expertise with Word, Excel, OneNote and Teams.
• Comfortable using Copilot (or similar AI tools) to enhance the quality of your work.
• A security clearance to a “Secret” level is required for this role.
• Proven experience in a senior support role, ideally within central government.

Working at Customs

Working for New Zealand Customs

To join Customs in any role you must be a New Zealand citizen or New Zealand permanent resident and be able to obtain and maintain an Organisational Security clearance along with being able to obtain and maintain security clearance to “Secret” level. (

A clear Police record is required. Organisational security clearances are mandatory and are conducted by Customs. You will also be required to pass a drug test.

How To Apply

To apply, please submit an up‑to‑date CV and cover letter via our online process. (Please note, we do not accept applications sent directly to an email address).

If you have any specific questions about the role, please contact Suzanne Leahy (Senior Recruitment Advisor) at

Deadline for applications : 11pm, Thursday 30 October 2025.

Seniority level

Employment type

Job function

We are an organisation that is clear about our mission, and this is underpinned by our values. Our work really matters to the safety and success of New Zealand.

We aim to create a great place to work, where our people have a sense of belonging and the capability and desire to meet our future challenges.

We care about well‑being, personal growth, and job satisfaction, which is supported through : offering on‑the‑job training, formal courses, inclusive team environment, flexible working, discounted health insurance, free on‑site gyms, and generous leave packages.

Equal employment opportunities : New Zealand Customs Service is a member of Diversity Works New Zealand and is committed to developing a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace. It provides equal employment opportunities and welcomes applications from everyone who can meet the requirements of the role.

We welcome referrals from candidates to increase your chances of interview success at New Zealand Customs Service by 2x.

Location : Wellington, New Zealand

This role is located in Wellington, only minutes from the Wellington Railway station. Flexible working arrangements, three additional leave days and in‑house gym facilities are available.

We are hiring now for this position.

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