Unit Manager - FTA Boost Unit

• There has never been a more critical time to work on international trade.
• Lead an exciting opportunity to shape the development of the newly established FTA Boost Unit, with a focus on delivering on the Government’s ambition to double export value in ten years.
• Provide strategic direction and leadership to leverage New Zealand’s free trade agreements and resolve non-tariff barriers, working very closely with our FTA implementation and engagement teams.

About the role - Kōrero mō te tūranga

The Unit Manager, FTA Boost is responsible for establishing and managing the new FTA Boost Unit, with a strong focus on a supportive and productive team culture.  The Unit will focus on leveraging New Zealand’s Free Trade Agreements and addressing Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs). While New Zealand has had an active FTA implementation programme for several years, New Zealand businesses are still leaving considerable FTA benefits on the table and this role will also be responsible for providing strategic direction and leadership over TEG’s programme of work to leverage New Zealand’s FTAs, alongside providing strategic leadership on addressing NTBs. Working with other relevant divisions are critical to this role, including the Economics division, Trade Policy Negotiations division, and bilateral and regional divisions.

In this role you will:

• Lead the development of whole of government policy and strategy on FTA leveraging, driving innovative approaches to maximising the benefits of New Zealand’s FTAs
• Lead a work programme that resolves FTA-related access issues and support to develop Non-Tariff Barrier (NTB) resolution plans
• Build capability across MFAT and other agencies in support of FTA leveraging
• Oversee communications and promotional material on FTA utilisation
• Oversee training for New Zealand’s Post networks on identifying and resolving NTBs
• Deliver concrete outcomes from leveraging and expanding Free Trade Agreements
• Manage research and analysis on FTA utilisation
• Provide direction to standing up the new FTA Boost Unit, which will be comprised of approximately 5 staff, with a range of technical experts and policy staff
• Build strong relationships with other government agencies and with industry and business to leverage FTAs

For more detail you can view the position description here.

The appointing salary range for this role is $171,274 to $201,500 total remuneration, inclusive of our 3% KiwiSaver employer contribution.

Who are we looking for? - Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

We’d like to hear from you if you are an experienced leader with the following skills and experience:

• Prior experience working with business and across government desirable
• A relevant background in economics, trade, public diplomacy, law and/or other relevant disciplines is desirable
• Previous experience in trade, with a focus on leveraging trade agreements is preferred
• Prior experience addressing Non-Tariff Barriers preferred
• Demonstrated leadership and management acumen, with previous experience managing teams
• Strong project management skills, planning and organising skills, and the ability to manage a work programme
• A strong understanding of the Government decision making process
• Strong communication skills
• Strong qualitative and quantitative analytical skills
• Understanding of The Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti, Te Reo Māori and Māori customs and protocols would be beneficial

Why MFAT? - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Aorere

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options consistent with guidance from the Public Service Commission.  Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here.

MFAT is Rainbow Tick accredited. We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging.  We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds. 

About us - Mō mātou

The Ministry acts in the world to build a safer, more prosperous, and more sustainable future for New Zealanders.  MFAT is the Government’s principal agent for pursuing New Zealand’s international interests and representing our country offshore. We build connections with and influence other countries to advance New Zealand’s interests, project our values, and secure outcomes that matter to us.  We progress the Government’s international priorities and advise the Government on how regional and global events could impact New Zealand.

To Apply/Interested? Me pēhea te tuku tono

Apply today with your CV and cover letter.

To be considered for this position at Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade you must be a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident.

It is a requirement of the role that you must be able to obtain and maintain a relevant New Zealand Government security clearance.

Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a Top Secret clearance. Please note that this tool is not part of the formal security clearance process: http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool

Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Applications close midnight on Sunday 31st August, 2025.