Chief Executive - Construction & Specialist Trades

Chief Executive – Construction and Specialist Trades – Industry Skills Board (ISB)

Location : Wellington

Type : Full-time, permanent

Reports to : Chair, Establishment Advisory Group (until the ISB Board is confirmed)

About the role

The 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.

What you will do

• Lead the formal establishment and operational readiness of the ISB
• Drive strategic direction while maintaining hands-on operational oversight
• Build a high-performing, values-driven culture within a lean team structure
• Ensure credibility with industry, government, Māori and iwi partners and the wider vocational education sector
• Navigate complex regulatory environments and lead through ambiguity and change
• Uphold public sector governance, financial accountability and Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments

This 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 for

You might be an experienced Chief Executive (CE) or a proven senior leader ready for your first CE role. Either way, you’ll bring :

Your first 90–180 days

You’ll be expected to :

What you’ll bring to the Board

While the Board is still forming, we’re looking for someone who can complement emerging governance capability with :

Why this role matters

ISBs 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

REFERENCE : BH-11385

Applications close : 8 October 2025

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