Mō te tūnga | About the role
The Defence Technology Accelerator (Def TA) is a newly established NZDF function that connects Defence with industry, academia and government partners to identify, assess and advance innovative technologies with military application.
Def TA helps accelerate the pathway from innovation to operational advantage, providing insights that inform future capability decisions while supporting the growth of New Zealand's defence innovation ecosystem.
The Deputy Director role will provide strategic leadership and work alongside the Director to connect NZDF with industry, academia and government and the wider innovation ecosystem. You'll play a key role in accelerating emerging technologies into real-world defence capability, building trusted partnerships and strengthening NZDF's engagement with advanced technology providers. The team will turn bold ideas into real-world outcomes.
Bringing deep expertise in industry engagement, innovation and commercial practice, you'll lead a high-performing team while driving collaboration, influence and delivery across sectors. This is a unique opportunity to help establish and evolve a new organisation, shaping its direction, operating model and long-term impact on New Zealand's defence innovation landscape.
This is a rare opportunity to build something from the ground up. Come and be part of a once-in-a-career opportunity to help create and shape the Def TA. With a new team, new role and new ways of working, you'll have the chance to influence strategy, forge impactful partnerships and accelerate innovation that strengthens New Zealand's future defence capability.
The salary for this role will be around $180,000, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. The role will be based in Auckland Central.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience
We're seeking an accomplished leader with a proven ability to bridge technology, innovation and strategic outcomes. You'll bring significant experience working across complex environments, with the credibility to engage senior leaders, industry partners, founders, researchers and investors alike.
To be successful in this role, you will bring:
- Extensive senior leadership experience, ideally within technology, innovation, commercialisation, venture, research or related sectors.
- Deep understanding of innovation ecosystems, advanced technologies and the pathways from concept to adoption and operational impact.
- Proven ability to build strategic partnerships and influence outcomes across industry, government, academia and investment communities.
- Strong commercial acumen, with experience navigating both public and private sector environments.
- Demonstrated success leading organisational growth, transformation, new ventures or emerging capabilities from concept through to delivery.
- Exceptional stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to provide trusted advice at executive and decision-making levels.
- A track record of translating complex challenges into practical solutions and measurable results.
- Well-established networks across New Zealand's innovation, technology, research or commercial sectors.
Ideally, you'll also have:
- Experience working with advanced or emerging technologies, technology commercialisation, venture-backed organisations or start-up environments.
- Knowledge of New Zealand's innovation, research and advanced technology landscape.
- Experience in defence, security, government innovation or related sectors, although this is not essential.
This role will suit a strategic and entrepreneurial leader who thrives in ambiguity, builds trusted relationships and is passionate about turning bold ideas into real-world impact.
Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you
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 pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply
Applications close on Wednesday 7 October 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.
- 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.
