Chief Executive – Electrotechnology & Information Technology

Chief Executive – Electrotechnology and Information Technology – Industry Skills Board (ISB)

Reports to: Chair, Establishment Advisory Group (until the ISB Board is confirmed)

Lead the Future of Vocational Education in Electrotechnology and Information Technology in Aotearoa

The ISB is seeking a visionary and yet grounded Chief Executive to lead the establishment and operational delivery of a new statutory body at the heart of New Zealand’s vocational education and training system.
This is a rare opportunity to shape a lean, agile organisation from the ground up – one that will directly influence how industry skills are developed, delivered, and recognised across the country.

About the Role

As Chief Executive, you will:

• Lead the formal establishment and operational readiness of the ISB.
• Drive strategic direction while maintaining hands-on operational oversight.
• Build a high-performing, values-driven culture within a lean team structure.
• Ensure credibility with industry, government, Māori and iwi partners, and the wider vocational education sector.
• Navigate complex regulatory environments and lead through ambiguity and change.
• Uphold public sector governance, financial accountability, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments.

This role is both strategic and operational – ideal for a builder, wayfinder and establishment leader who thrives in complexity and is comfortable rolling up their sleeves to in complexity and is comfortable rolling up their sleeves to get things done.

Who We’re Looking For

You might be an experienced Chief Executive (CE) or a proven senior leader ready for your first CE role. Either way, you’ll bring:

• Proven leadership in small-to-medium public or private sector organisations.
• Demonstrable links to an electrotechnology or technology sector
• Understanding of New Zealand’s vocational education system and government interactions.
• A lean mindset – comfortable leading without layers of hierarchy.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, especially with industry and government.
• A track record of building culture, navigating change, and delivering results.
• An authentic communication style that builds trust and credibility across sectors.

Your First 90–180 Days

You’ll be expected to:

• Establish core systems, frameworks, and relationships.
• Ensure service continuity during the transition from predecessor organisations.
• Build a cohesive team culture and operational rhythm.
• Engage with stakeholders to position the ISB as a trusted and capable partner.

What You’ll Bring to the Board

While the Board is still forming, we’re looking for someone who can complement emerging governance capability with:

• Strategic clarity and operational discipline.
• Confidence in ambiguity and a bias for action.
• A collaborative, grounded personality that can bring structure to an evolving entity

Why this Role Matters

ISBs are a cornerstone of the vocational education reforms. This role is pivotal in ensuring that industry has a strong, credible voice in shaping qualifications, standards, and workforce planning.
If you’re passionate about creating something enduring, leading with authenticity, and making a real impact – this is your moment.

Apply Now

Join us in building a future-focused, industry-led vocational education system that delivers real outcomes for learners and employers.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE: 1 October 2025
REFERENCE: BH-11387
FURTHER ENQUIRIES: Ben Stevenson on 021 101 5480