Strategic Supply Chain Advisor

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the NZDF Supply Chain System as the principal strategic advisor to the Inspector General Joint Defence Services.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Provide strategic advice on supply chain performance, resilience, preparedness and future capability.
• Lead the development of governance frameworks, assurance processes and performance reporting systems.
• Deliver independent analysis and insights to support executive and enterprise-level decision making.
• Influence senior Defence and government stakeholders to strengthen supply chain integration and risk management.
• Drive long-term system stewardship, positioning NZDF to successfully generate and sustain operational capabilities and outcomes.

Strategic focus

The role brings an enterprise perspective to supply chain performance, governance, and risk management, helping shape the future state of the NZDF supply chain. It provides leadership in developing a resilient, integrated, and fit-for-purpose supply chain system that underpins operational readiness and supports the successful delivery of NZDF's military and organisational objectives.

This role is based in Wellington. Once you have undergone training and are up to speed, there is the option for flexible working arrangements.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

We're seeking a strategic leader with experience influencing complex organisations, developing governance frameworks, and enhancing supply chain performance. You'll bring strong systems thinking, sound judgement, and the ability to work with senior leaders to deliver enterprise-wide outcomes.

Key skills and experience include:

• Strong capability in systems thinking, strategic analysis and assessing risks, opportunities and trade-offs to support informed decision-making.
• Experience leading and influencing supply chain systems or similarly complex business environments at a senior level.
• Demonstrated success developing and implementing governance frameworks, business cases and organisational improvement initiatives.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to build trust, credibility and influence across Defence, government and external partners.
• Experience driving continuous improvement and change, with knowledge of Government Rules of Sourcing (GRoS), Capital Asset Management (CAM), Better Business Cases (BBC), or Defence policy.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of Defence capability at a strategic level, influencing key decisions, driving meaningful change, and strengthening the resilience and readiness of NZDF's supply chain system while working alongside senior Defence and operational leaders.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Tuesday 25 August 2026.

Use the links on this page where you’ll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here’s what you need to know:

Higher Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.
• You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.