The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) is the peak body for the rail sector across Australia and New Zealand, representing operators, infrastructure managers, manufacturers, suppliers and consultants working together to grow a safer, more sustainable and better connected rail network.

We are seeking a strategic and highly connected senior leader to drive the ARA’s activities and profile in New Zealand as our General Manager – New Zealand.

This is a significant appointment, marking the first time the ARA will have a dedicated representative based in New Zealand, and a unique opportunity to shape rail policy, strengthen industry collaboration and elevate the voice of the rail sector with government and stakeholders across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Reporting to the Head of Policy & Advocacy and working closely with the ARA Aotearoa Rail Committee, you will lead the ARA’s engagement, advocacy and member activities across New Zealand.

You will be the primary representative of the ARA in New Zealand — building trusted relationships with government, industry leaders and key stakeholders, while helping drive a strong and sustainable future for rail.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading government and stakeholder engagement across New Zealand
• Raising the profile of both the ARA and the rail sector
• Supporting and growing ARA membership in New Zealand
• Managing the Aotearoa Rail Committee and related working groups
• Developing and delivering policy and advocacy initiatives
• Leading industry events, forums and member engagement activities
• Supporting sustainability and decarbonisation initiatives across the rail sector
• Monitoring policy, regulatory and political developments affecting rail and infrastructure

About you
You are a senior policy, advocacy or industry engagement professional with strong networks and credibility across New Zealand government and industry.

You will bring:

• Significant experience in senior policy, government relations or industry association roles
• Strong understanding of New Zealand government and parliamentary processes
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and drive outcomes
• Experience in rail, transport, infrastructure or a related sector (preferred but not essential).

Relevant tertiary qualifications in public policy, communications, law, social sciences or a related discipline will be highly regarded.

Applications
For a confidential discussion or to obtain a copy of the Position Description, please contact us via employment@ara.net.au

Applications close 23 June 2026, and should include:

• A current CV
• A short cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

The ARA welcomes applications from candidates across New Zealand (Wellington/Auckland preferred).  Apply via SEEK here.

*  Applications from candidates interested in undertaking this role on a 0.4 FTE (two days per week) basis will be considered. For the successful candidate, responsibilities will be tailored to align with the agreed working hours while maintaining a strong focus on the role's core objectives.