Senior Business Risk Assurance Analyst
New Zealand Government
Mo te tunga | About the role
Join more than 15,000 New Zealanders working for the New Zealand Defence Force and contribute directly to the defence, security, and wellbeing of Aotearoa New Zealand.
We have an opportunity for an experienced Senior Business Risk Assurance Analyst to join Information Command (INFOCOM), supporting the effective management of business risk, assurance, and governance across the Defence Information Environment.
In this role, you will provide independent and objective risk and assurance services that support senior leaders and governance groups to make informed, transparent decisions while delivering
NZDF priorities and INFOCOM's strategic plan.
Working closely with stakeholders across INFOCOM, you will lead risk activities, facilitate risk discussions, and ensure business risks are identified, managed, reported and escalated according to the risk governance framework. You will also contribute to the development of assurance activities.
This will include
- Leading enterprise and programme level risk activities and advisory
- Facilitating risk discussions and embedding risk informed decision making
- Delivering targeted assurance reviews where independent validation is required
- Supporting uplift of risk capability and maturity across INFOCOM
This role suits a senior risk professional who is comfortable working across ambiguity, influencing without ownership, and balancing assurance rigour with operational pragmatism.
Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience
To be successful in this role you will have previous experience in a risk and assurance position, within a complex organisation, ideally within a technology environment. You will have good stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, independent risk and assurance advice to senior leaders across INFOCOM.
You will also bring:
- A strong understanding of enterprise and ICT risk and governance
- Experience of building risk maturity in an organisation
- Experience applying risk or assurance frameworks in practice
- The ability to analyse complex issues and exercise sound judgement
- Confidence engaging across technical and non-technical teams
No candidate is expected to meet every desired skill / experience listed. If your background differs from what we've outlined but you believe you can contribute to the role, we encourage you to apply.
There will be an expectation to work from Wellington CBD, but flexibility can be provided for some days to be based in Petone, Heretaunga or WFH.
Applications may be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.
Nou te rourou | What's in it for you
Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning - 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 pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply
Applications close on Tuesday 23 June 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 and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
- 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.