Principal Compliance Officer

Principal Compliance Officer – Animal Welfare and NAIT Compliance

• Role type : Permanent, full time
• Location : 1 x North Island, 1 x South Island
• Salary band & range : General Salary Range D – $100,934 to $118,005, depending on skills and experience

About the Role – Kōrero mō te Tūranga

The Compliance & Response Directorate within Agricultural and Investment Services is recruiting for two Principal Compliance Officers within Animal Welfare and NAIT Compliance. This new role emphasises directorate‑wide excellence and covers the full scope of the Compliance and Response portfolio – from NAIT compliance to animal welfare compliance, inspecting fish farms, zoos, livestock and all related operations.

About You – Mōu

You are an established compliance expert, highly regarded in your field, and you bring infectious energy and passion to empower others. You thrive on leading complex, large‑scale and unique investigations, are comfortable with the New Zealand court process, and prepare meticulous investigation files. Your attention to detail, analytical thinking and ability to see the big picture enable you to tackle ambiguous environments swiftly, spot improvement opportunities and communicate challenging ideas with confidence and impact.

Hands‑on experience in farming, animal husbandry practices and traceability obligations is essential. You will engage directly with farmers and key stakeholders, knowing the farming calendar and operating at the ground level. Experience mentoring and championing high‑performing operational teams is also desired.

Responsibilities

Lead complex investigations into animal welfare and NAIT compliance across New Zealand. Prepare evidence‑based findings for court hearings and develop comprehensive investigation files. Provide guidance and support to field staff, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes professional growth. Adapt quickly to new challenges, exercise strategic clarity and hold accountability for driving continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Requirements

Security Checks – Ngā Taki Whakahaumaru

Higher level security clearance is required. Eligibility is normally limited to :

Drug and Alcohol Screening – Whakamātau Whakapōauau me te Waipiro

Given this position is safety‑sensitive, preferred candidates will be required to undergo a drug and alcohol pre‑employment screening test. Further information is available on our careers site.

Benefits of Working at MPI – Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Ahu Matua

Application Information

Applications close at 11 : 59pm on Sunday 2 November 2025. Please email with any questions. Visit the MPI Careers site to view the position description and to apply. You must hold the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waiteangi and working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau and hāpori. We aspire to reflect the diverse communities we serve, and we welcome applications from all backgrounds and identities.

Key Details

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