The Board of Airline Representatives New Zealand (BARNZ) is seeking an accomplished executive to lead one of the country's most influential aviation organisations.
Representing more than 20 international and domestic airlines, together with associate members, BARNZ works with government, regulators, airports and industry stakeholders to create the policy and operating environment that enables commercial aviation to thrive in New Zealand. Through advocacy, strategic leadership and industry collaboration, BARNZ helps shape decisions that strengthen connectivity, support economic growth and improve outcomes for airlines and the travelling public.
Reporting to the Executive Committee, the Executive Director is responsible for leading the organisation, delivering its strategic priorities and representing the collective interests of member airlines. This is a highly visible leadership role requiring sound judgement, political awareness and the ability to build trusted relationships across government, industry and the wider aviation sector.
The opportunity
You will lead a respected industry association at a time when aviation continues to evolve in response to changing regulatory, environmental and commercial priorities.
Working closely with the Executive Committee and member airlines, you will ensure BARNZ remains an influential and trusted advocate while strengthening its long-term sustainability and value to members.
Success in the role will include:
- Providing strategic leadership and implementing the priorities agreed with the Executive Committee.
- Representing member airlines with Ministers, government agencies, regulators, airports and industry organisations.
- Leading advocacy on policy and regulatory matters affecting commercial aviation.
- Acting as the public spokesperson for BARNZ and strengthening its profile with media and stakeholders.
- Maintaining strong governance, financial stewardship and organisational performance.
- Growing member value while identifying opportunities to strengthen the organisation's influence and membership base.
- Leading a small, capable team and coordinating specialist advisors where required.
About you
You are an experienced executive who is comfortable operating in complex stakeholder environments and bringing together diverse perspectives to achieve shared outcomes.
You will bring:
- A proven track record in senior leadership, ideally within aviation, transport, infrastructure, government, policy or a membership organisation.
- Experience influencing public policy and engaging effectively with senior government officials, regulators and industry leaders.
- Strong commercial and financial capability, supported by strategic thinking and sound judgement.
- Exceptional communication and relationship management skills, including experience representing an organisation publicly.
- The ability to navigate complexity, respond to emerging issues and build consensus across multiple stakeholders.
- A collaborative leadership style with the credibility to represent the interests of a diverse membership.
- Relevant tertiary qualifications in business, law, economics, finance, management or a related discipline will be well regarded.
The impact
This is an opportunity to shape the future of commercial aviation in New Zealand.
You will work alongside airline leaders, government decision makers and key industry partners to influence policy, strengthen the aviation sector and ensure New Zealand remains a competitive and attractive destination for international and domestic airlines.
If you are motivated by purposeful leadership, strategic influence and making a lasting contribution to an industry that connects New Zealand with the world, we encourage you to apply.
Applications close 26th August 2026.