Chief Executive - Construction & Specialist Trades

OverviewChief Executive – Construction and Specialist Trades – Industry Skills Board (ISB)Location : WellingtonType : Full-time, permanentReports to : Chair, Establishment Advisory Group (until the ISB Board is confirmed)About the roleThe Construction and Specialist Trades ISB is seeking a visionary yet grounded Chief Executive to lead the establishment and operational delivery of a new statutory body at the heart of New Zealand's vocational education and training system.This is a rare opportunity to shape a lean, agile organisation from the ground up : one that will directly influence how industry skills are developed, delivered and recognised around the country.ResponsibilitiesLead the formal establishment and operational readiness of the ISBDrive strategic direction while maintaining hands-on operational oversightBuild a high-performing, values-driven culture within a lean team structureEnsure credibility with industry, government, Maori and iwi partners and the wider vocational education sectorNavigate complex regulatory environments and lead through ambiguity and changeUphold public sector governance, financial accountability and Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitmentsThis role is both strategic and operational and ideal for an establishment leader who thrives in complexity and is comfortable rolling up their sleeves to get things done.Who we're looking forYou might be an experienced Chief Executive (CE) or a proven senior leader ready for your first CE role.

Either way, you'll bring : Proven leadership in small-to-medium public or private sector organisationsUnderstanding of New Zealand's vocational education system and government interactionsA lean mindset and be comfortable leading without layers of hierarchyStrong stakeholder engagement skills, especially with industry and governmentA track record of building culture, navigating change and delivering resultsAn authentic communication style that builds trust and credibility across sectorsYour first 90–180 daysYou'll be expected to : Establish core systems, frameworks and relationshipsEnsure service continuity during the transition from predecessor organisationsBuild a cohesive team culture and operational rhythmEngage with stakeholders to position the ISB as a trusted and capable partnerWhat you'll bring to the BoardWhile the Board is still forming, we're looking for someone who can complement emerging governance capability with : Strategic clarity and operational disciplineConfidence in ambiguity and a bias for actionA collaborative, grounded personality that can bring structureA natural curiosity that drives continuous improvement and growth of the organisationWhy this role mattersISBs are a cornerstone of the vocational education reforms.

This role is pivotal in ensuring that industry has a strong, credible voice in shaping qualifications, standards and workforce planning across the construction and specialist trades sectors.If you're passionate about creating something enduring, leading with authenticity, and making a real impact – this is your moment.Join us in building a future-focused, industry-led vocational education system that delivers real outcomes for learners and employers.Further Enquiries : Nikki Franklin 027 287 9390REFERENCE : BH-11385Applications close : 8 October 2025

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