Mō te tūnga | About the role
We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to join the Defence Intelligence Enterprise as the Deputy Director Intelligence Assurance. This is a unique opportunity to shape and oversee the Intelligence Worthiness Framework, ensuring intelligence activities are lawful, trusted, effective, and aligned with Defence objectives.
- Develop and maintain a Defence-wide Intelligence Worthiness Framework.
- Provide assurance that intelligence activities comply with relevant legislation, regulations, and policy requirements.
- Identify and address gaps, overlaps, and inconsistencies in governance, authorisation, and approval processes
- Design and implement certification frameworks for intelligence professionals.
- Establish accreditation processes for existing and emerging intelligence activities.
The salary for this role ranges from $117,440-$129,827, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.
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.
Please note: As this role requires a high level of security clearance, you will need to be / have been a NZ, UK, Australian, Canadian or USA citizen for a minimum of 15 years to be eligible for this role.
The successful candidate is required to undergo a psychological assessment as part of the pre-employment security vetting process.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience
You are a highly credible intelligence or assurance professional with strong strategic thinking, excellent judgement, and the ability to influence at senior levels.
You will bring:
- Strong knowledge of governance, assurance, compliance, and risk management frameworks.
- Understanding of New Zealand intelligence legislation, security requirements, and ethical obligations
- Exceptional analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Strong written, verbal, and briefing skills.
- Proven ability to build relationships and influence across complex organisation.
- Experience within the intelligence, national security, defence, or related sectors
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.
This role requires occasional domestic and international travel.
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 Tuesday 13 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 for at least the last ten (10) years.
- 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.
- To obtain this level of clearance, you must have a background history of fifteen (15) years 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.
