Job Description
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
A great place to work. With great work to do.
Ours is a meaningful and impactful role, as a kaitiaki (caretakers) of the financial services in Aotearoa. We oversee a market that does right by everyone, ensuring better outcomes for all New Zealanders. Our role as a kaitiaki is brought to life by our values; Look to the Horizon, Help the Team Work, Make the Calls and Open Hearts, Open Minds.
Te Tūranga | The Role
We're looking for a visionary and experienced economist to take on a pivotal leadership role at the heart of the FMA's mission. As our Chief Economist, you'll help ensure New Zealanders can trust the financial sector as a solid foundation for their financial future.
With our remit expanding significantly in recent years, a strong economic lens is vital to support our risk-based and outcomes-focused approach. In this role, you'll lead the FMA's economic thinking and analysis, enabling informed, evidence-based decisions that build confidence, promote participation, and drive efficiency in New Zealand's financial markets.
He kōrero mōu | About you
You'll bring credibility, strong leadership and deep economic expertise. Specifically:
- You're a highly qualified economist (PhD or Master's level), confident applying rigorous economic theory and analysis in a flexible, innovative way to tackle new and emerging regulatory challenges.
- You have a strategic mindset and deliver high-quality work under pressure.
- As a proven leader and communicator, you're skilled at building strong relationships and communicating complex ideas with clarity and impact.
- Your leadership style is empowering and inspiring — your team thrives under your guidance.
Why work at the FMA?
Purposeful work.
We're on a mission to foster a fair, efficient and transparent financial sector that benefits all New Zealanders. If you value integrity, collaboration and public service, this is the place for you.
Stimulating challenges.
You'll join an intellectually curious team at the forefront of a rapidly evolving sector. We think critically, act boldly and make a real difference for consumers.
A supportive culture.
We value ambition, open-mindedness and individuality. You'll be part of a diverse, inclusive workplace where people are respected, supported and empowered to do their best work.
Ngā painga | What we offer
We're proud to offer a work environment that supports both personal and professional growth. Our benefits include:
- 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution
- Comprehensive health and life insurance
- Extra paid leave during the Christmas period
- The ability to swap public holidays for days of personal significance
- Generous parental leave
- Extensive learning and development offering, including leadership programmes and coaching
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, valued and able to thrive.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
If this sounds like your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you. For more details, please refer to the position description attached, or contact Kelly Winyard at kelly.winyard@fma.govt.nz with any questions.
Applications close Sunday 27 July 2025.