Sector Manager, Local Government

Sector Manager, Local Government

The Audit Office | Te Mana Arotake aims to improve trust and confidence in public services by giving New Zealanders an independent view of government spending and performance. As the statutory auditor of all public organisations, from councils to schools, the Auditor-General's work plays a major part in ensuring that our public sector remains one of the most trusted in the world.

Sector Managers have an influential senior role, engaging with chief executives, governors, elected representatives, and Parliament.

As a Sector Manager, you'll take responsibility for a portfolio of public entities supporting the Office's relationship with them to influence the improvement of public sector performance and accountability.

You'll also maintain an understanding of challenges facing the public sector and how these are being addressed. Working closely with other sector managers and appointed auditors, you'll lead the Office's thinking about what work we do on these matters.

You'll need to have:

a tertiary qualification, preferably but not necessarily in accounting, economics, public policy, or law;

experience working at a senior level with governors, chief executives, and senior managers in the public sector;

experience in advising ministers, members of Parliament, Parliamentary select committees, or audit and risk committees;

a thorough understanding of New Zealand's system of local government;

an understanding of te Tiriti o Waitangi and te ao Maori; and

an understanding of finance, accounting, and auditing practices (or the ability to come to grips with these practices quickly).

We offer our staff:

learning and development opportunities;

supportive flexible working;

health and well-being benefits; and

a unique operating environment with Parliament. - including about staff networks, annual leave, and family benefits - on our website: ao.parliament.nz/about-us/careers/benefits-for-employees

What we stand for

People matter | Our independence is critical | We act with integrity and courage | We're here to make a difference

We have a diverse and inclusive team that helps us to understand the issues facing the public sector and how these affect the lives of New Zealanders. We strongly welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so that we can assist you through the recruitment process.

We value originality and effort. Although AI can be helpful, we require you to submit a cover letter and CV that reflects your own voice and experiences.

For more information, please contact Sandy Hoggarth on recruitment@ao.parliament.nz.

To find out more about us, see our website: www.ao.parliament.nz

You must apply online through jobs.govt.nz (you'll find the application form and position description there, too).

Applications close Tuesday 11 August 2026

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