• Shape the future direction of NZTA’s data, AI and asset technology domains
• Influence enterprise platforms, technology investment and architectural standards
• Partner with senior technology leaders to enable practical, future-focused delivery

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

At NZ Transport Agency | Waka Kotahi (NZTA), data is one of our most valuable strategic assets. It informs decision-making, supports the transport system, enables digital services and helps us deliver better outcomes for New Zealand.

We are looking for an experienced Enterprise Architect, Data and Asset to lead the architecture direction across our Data and Asset technology domains.

This is a strategic leadership role that brings together enterprise thinking, technology direction and practical delivery enablement. Working closely with the Head of Data & AI, our architecture community and technology leaders, you will help shape the platforms, services, capabilities and standards that support digital products and services across NZTA.

In this role you will:

• Own the architecture direction for the Data and Asset technology domains
• Develop target states, architecture roadmaps and strategic technology guidance
• Partner with the Head of Data & AI to shape NZTA’s enterprise data and AI capabilities
• Guide the direction of data platforms, information management services, analytics capabilities and asset technology ecosystems
• Identify opportunities for standardisation, simplification and reuse
• Provide strategic domain guidance to solution architects and delivery teams
• Influence technology investment decisions and organisational priorities
• Ensure enterprise architecture principles are reflected in product and platform development

This role sits between enterprise strategy and solution delivery. Rather than designing individual solutions, you will establish the long-term architecture vision and strategic framework that helps teams make sound technology decisions and deliver successful outcomes.

Success will come from balancing strategic technology leadership with a pragmatic understanding of delivery, organisational priorities and the evolving technology landscape.

You can find out more about the role in the Position Description.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

You will be a strategic technology leader with a strong interest in data and a clear understanding of how complex enterprise technology domains evolve over time.

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Significant experience in enterprise, solution or technology architecture
• Strong knowledge of data platforms, information management, analytics and emerging AI capabilities
• Experience developing technology strategies, target states and architecture roadmaps
• The ability to influence senior stakeholders, technology leaders and investment decisions
• Experience working across complex product, platform and delivery environments
• Strong systems thinking, analysis and problem-solving capabilities
• An understanding of how data and technology enable organisational outcomes and digital services
• The ability to translate complex technology concepts into clear strategic direction
• Excellent communication, collaboration and relationship-building skills.

You will be comfortable providing direction where there are competing priorities, complex dependencies or uncertainty. You will also know when to hold a clear architectural position and when to work pragmatically with delivery teams to achieve the best overall outcome.

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to develop an understanding of, Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to develop an appreciation of, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application within the public service.

Mō mātou | About us

The Chief Technology Office (CTO) is a strategic business enabler within NZTA, providing the digital skills, capabilities, platforms and leadership needed to support our operational performance, regulatory responsibilities and future transport vision.

The CTO helps ensure our digital investments, platforms and services align with organisational priorities and deliver value across NZTA. It plays an important role in enabling efficient service delivery, improving customer experience, managing risk and supporting long-term planning.

As part of Te Aukaha | Digital, you'll contribute to improving our services and decision-making and providing modern, fit-for-purpose digital, information and technology solutions for our people, partners and customers.

You'll be part of an Architecture function that is strengthening its enterprise role, building greater capability to look across NZTA, establish clear direction and enable delivery through stronger standards, patterns and guardrails.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return

This is an opportunity to shape the future of two strategically important technology domains at NZTA.

You will work alongside the Head of Data & AI, architecture leaders and delivery teams to influence how NZTA manages, shares, governs and derives value from data, while providing strategic direction for the technology landscape that supports our digital and asset management capabilities.

You will also have the opportunity to:

• Influence enterprise-level technology direction and investment
• Work across complex, nationally significant platforms and services
• Contribute to the development of NZTA’s data, AI and architecture capabilities
• Collaborate with experienced technology, product and delivery professionals
• Work in an environment that supports flexibility, professional growth and meaningful public-sector outcomes

In addition, you'll benefit from:

• Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance
• Five weeks annual leave
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent employees
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• A collaborative and inclusive culture committed to delivering meaningful outcomes for New Zealanders

If you are passionate about data, AI, architecture and long-term technology strategy, we would love to hear from you.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please click Apply to upload your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role. 

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

For further information, email: [email protected]

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.