Audit New Zealand is a professional services organisation offering a broad range of audit and assurance services to clients across the public and state sectors. It is an operating arm of the Office of the Controller and Auditor-General (OAG) with over 200 staff located throughout New Zealand, and operates similarly to other leading professional services firms.

Based in Wellington, the Executive Director is accountable to the Controller and Auditor-General for the strategic and operational leadership of Audit New Zealand and implementation of policy and standards. Leadership will centre on realising the vision “… to set the benchmark for design and delivery of audit and assurance products and services, both nationally and internationally.”

This is a people leadership role with a strong focus on client needs and adding value in a professional services environment. The ability to understand and draw close to clients, and model and support this to others, will be critical. Challenges will also revolve around providing strategic support and leadership to the staff of Audit New Zealand. This will focus on facilitating collaborative work across the organisation, including the relationship with the Office of the Auditor-General.

The ideal applicant will possess the following capabilities and experience:

• Proven organisational leadership skills from within a professional services environment.
• A track record of successfully meeting client needs and supporting staff through best practice in relationship management and delivery.
• Strategic capabilities linked to business planning and performance.
• An understanding of the public sector and the audit environment, although private sector experience would also be valued.
• A professional accounting and audit background and experience is desirable.
• The ability to lead with energy, enthusiasm and absolute integrity.

Confidential enquiries and applications should be directed by Monday, 4 August 2008 to Grant Pryde or Guy Brew at Executive Appointments, Email: recruit@eawgtn.co.nz, PO Box 10863, Wellington, Tel: 04 499 8230, Fax: 04 499 9235. For further information on the organisation, refer to www.auditnz.govt.nz and www.oag.govt.nz