The Deputy Public Service Commissioner is the principal deputy to the Public Service Commissioner and plays a central role in shaping the capability, performance and future leadership of the New Zealand Public Service.
This is one of the most influential leadership roles in New Zealand’s Public Service and a rare opportunity to help shape the future leadership, capability and effectiveness of the Public Service.
The Deputy Public Service Commissioner is the principal deputy to the Public Service Commissioner and plays a central role in shaping the capability, performance and future leadership of the New Zealand Public Service.
Working at the heart of government, this statutory office has significant influence over Chief Executive leadership, executive talent pathways, organisational performance, and the long-term stewardship of the System. The Public Service faces increasing expectations to deliver high-quality services, stronger organisational performance, and greater efficiency for New Zealanders. This role will play a central part in strengthening the capability, leadership and effectiveness of the Public Service system.
Acting under delegation from, and alongside, the Public Service Commissioner, the Deputy Commissioner has significant responsibility for Chief Executive appointments, succession and performance, executive talent stewardship, organisational performance, cross-agency capability initiatives, investigations and inquiries, and strengthening the leadership capability required for a modern, high-performing Public Service.
This role requires an exceptional senior leader with the credibility, judgement and strategic capability to operate confidently at the political interface and across the most senior levels of government. You may come from the public or private sector, but you will bring significant executive leadership experience, a strong track record driving organisational performance and efficiency, experience building high-performing executive talent pathways, and credibility with Ministers, Chief Executives and senior stakeholders.
Experience as a Chief Executive, Deputy Chief Executive, Chief People Officer or equivalent senior executive leader will be highly regarded.
To view the Position Description, visit https://taumata.co.nz/opportunities/
To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter to applications@taumata.co.nz quoting vacancy #166 – Deputy Public Service Commissioner.
Applications close: 12pm, 3 June 2026
For a confidential discussion, contact David Hollander on 021 892 882 or John Bell on 021 599 586.
