Executive Assistant

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Defence Estate and Infrastructure (DEI) is responsible for estate strategy, performance, delivery, environmental services and asset management to support NZDF military capabilities and all of government outcomes. It is the third largest government estate and most diverse portfolio in New Zealand.

The purpose of the Executive Assistant role is to provide high-quality executive and administrative support, enabling General Managers to effectively fulfil their responsibilities to DEI and the wider NZDF. Normally the role will support two of the General Managers, although periodically it may be required to provide support to all four.

Key responsibilities include:

• Ensure the smooth running of the General Managers' day-to-day activities
• Proactively manage key administrative functions, including diary management and travel
• Coordinate meeting schedules, briefing materials, and follow-up actions for General Managers
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support business outcomes

One you have undergone training and are up to speed, there is the option for flexible working arrangements to work from home one day a week depending on the GMs’ schedules.

The salary for this role ranges from $70,187 - $77,865, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

This is a great opportunity for someone with exceptional executive assistant skills and experience. We are looking for someone with three or more years’ experience in this type of role.

You will play an integral role within a supportive team where professionalism, positivity and a “can do” attitude are encouraged. You will be ready for a new challenge within a large, dynamic organisation.

Ideally, you will have:

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate with diverse groups of people
• Proficiency using MS Office suite, including intermediate to advanced level Outlook and Word, PowerPoint and MS Teams
• The ability to manage several diaries efficiently
• Strong administration and coordination experience
• An aptitude to learn and improve processes
• The ability to identify priorities as and when they arise, while maintaining professionalism and communicating confidently across all the levels of the organisation

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 14 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:

Low 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 five (5) years.
• You must have a five (5) 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.