Job Advertisement - NZIIA Executive Director

Do you have expert knowledge of international affairs affecting New Zealand, strategic nous, financial acumen, excellent communications and networking skills, and governance and management experience?

The New Zealand Institute of International Affairs (NZIIA) is an independent, non-governmental organisation that promotes discussion and understanding of international issues through a programme of events around New Zealand, research, analysis, communications and publications.

NZIIA is inviting applications for the position of Executive Director. You will play a leading role in the public discussion of international affairs in New Zealand, including creating and executing strategies to deliver content enhancing New Zealand’s economic, social and environmental wellbeing and security.

You will also play a key role in identifying and attracting new sources of funding for the Institute, including pitching for and delivering projects and securing sponsorship. The role also requires progressing the Institute’s Governance, working with the National Board and regional branches to mitigate risk and deliver organisational objectives in compliance with the NZIIA Constitution and relevant legislation.

This is a full-time position of 37.5 hours per week based in NZIIA’s national office in central Wellington, although flexibility in hours worked and a mixture of office and home working is negotiable.

Some work activities including delivery of evening events will be outside standard work hours.

The salary range is $110,00-125,000 per annum, exclusive of 3% KiwiSaver contribution.

The successful applicant will be appointed in February 2026. Further details including a position description can be found here in the position description here. 

Applications including a covering letter and CV should be sent to Dr Hamish McDougall, Executive Director, NZIIA, by email to nziia@vuw.ac.nz by 23 January 2026.