Principal Advisor Cost Recovery

• A rare opportunity to lead thinking across a large, complex regulatory environment and shape how cost recovery supports future funding and pricing decisions
• Work across NZTA to bring strategic insight, analytical rigour and practical guidance to cost recovery frameworks, fee reviews and funding approaches that have organisation-wide impact
• Be the conduit to the business and leadership on the financial performance of our regulatory function
• Permanent opportunity based in Wellington

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

This is a key senior role where you will act as the thought leader for cost recovery across NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA). You will shape how cost recovery is applied as both a regulatory tool and a driver of performance, influencing practice across the organisation and wider public sector.

Working within the Finance Business Partnering function, you will lead the development of frameworks, policies and guidance that underpin effective cost recovery. You will provide expert advice to senior stakeholders and play a critical role in funding and fee reviews, ensuring pricing remains fit-for-purpose and aligned to evolving organisational and regulatory needs.

This is an opportunity to work at scale, applying strategic thinking, advanced modelling and strong stakeholder engagement to influence significant financial and regulatory outcomes.

You will find out more about the role here: Position Description.

Ō Pūmanawa | What we're looking for

Our Ideal Candidate Will Have Some Or All Of The Following (but Don’t Worry If You Don’t Tick Every Box)

• Extensive experience in cost recovery, pricing, or regulatory financial environments (10+ years preferred)
• Strong analytical capability, including advanced modelling and complex financial analysis
• Experience developing and applying costing frameworks, pricing models, or funding approaches
• Proven ability to provide strategic advice and influence senior stakeholders
• Experience leading or contributing to fee reviews, funding reviews or pricing decisions
• Strong relationship management skills, with the ability to build capability and influence across organisations
• A strategic, solutions focused mindset with the ability to navigate complex and ambiguous environments
• Experience coaching and mentoring others to grow capability

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification in finance, modelling, regulation or a related discipline

Mō mātou | About Us

NZTA is responsible for delivering a safe, efficient and connected transport system for Aotearoa. We manage one of the largest and most complex asset, funding and investment environments in New Zealand, providing a unique opportunity to work at scale and contribute to nationally significant outcomes.

He aha te take e uru ai koe ki a mātou? | So, why join us?

Our people are proud to be part of creating a better New Zealand. We’re searching for candidates who share our passion for people, communities, and the environment – and who are ready to contribute their unique skills to shape a better future.

At NZTA, you'll be part of an organisation where the different backgrounds, perspectives and life experiences of our people are celebrated. We want you to feel like you belong here - valued, respected, and empowered to bring your whole self to work.

From five weeks annual leave through to Life, Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for our permanent employees – you will be well looked after here. Our benefits are designed to support our people and provide a happy, healthy and high-performing environment. We take a principle-based approach to flexibility and offer a range of development opportunities to support your career growth.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:

Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close

19 July 2026

For further information, email: ***email_hidden***

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.