Principal Advisor - Financial Markets AML/CFT

About Us | Mō mātou   

The Regulatory and Identity Services Taituarā branch shapes systems and services that touch almost every New Zealander. Within this, the Regulatory Services Group has oversight of three significant regulatory systems – Anti‑Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT), Gambling, and Charities.

We are a responsive, risk‑based regulator focused on prevention and reducing harm. Our work helps ensure New Zealand businesses are not exploited by organised crime and that the integrity of the financial system is protected.

The role | Te tūnga  

 You will be the team’s technical expert for the financial markets portfolio, providing specialist guidance while remaining actively involved in the delivery of supervision activities. This includes leading and participating in onsite inspections, thematic reviews, investigations and other regulatory interventions that strengthen New Zealand’s AML/CFT supervisory approach and protect the financial system from financial crime. 

This is an influential position that combines strategic thinking with hands‑on regulatory delivery. Aswell as shaping supervisory strategy and providing expert advice, you will personally lead and contribute to complex supervisory engagements and regulatory activities. 

You will lead and shape the delivery of risk‑based supervision for financial markets, contribute to system stewardship, and provide trusted advice on complex and emerging AML/CFT issues. Building strong relationships across government, industry and other key stakeholder will be central to achieving effective regulatory outcomes.

What you bring | Nōu te rourou 

• Deep AML/CFT expertise – demonstrated expert knowledge of AML/CFT requirements, the regulatory system, and FATF methodology, with experience applying this through direct supervision of reporting entities within a complex financial market or regulatory environment. 
• Proven experience leading and delivering regulatory activities, including onsite inspections, desk-based reviews, thematic assessments and other supervisory interventions with the ability to translate findings into practical regulatory outcomes.
• Strategic and systems thinking – the ability to take a whole‑of‑system view, identify gaps and opportunities, and provide high‑quality, evidence-based advice on complex and sensitive issues. 
• Regulatory leadership – proven experience providing senior guidance, thought leadership and mentoring, and leading regulatory initiatives or programmes to improve outcomes. 
• Stakeholder engagement – strong relationship management skills, with the ability to engage credibly and constructively with senior stakeholders across government, industry, and international partners. 
• Analytical and problem‑solving capability – excellent analytical skills, sound judgement, and the ability to navigate ambiguity and complexity to deliver clear and pragmatic advice. 
• Exceptional communication skills – confident written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex regulatory and risk issues to a wide range of audiences.

For you | Mōu

At the Department of Internal Affairs, we are committed to offering a collaborative and innovative culture where your perspective and ideas will be welcomed. We want our people to thrive within a culture of best practice, while being able to set and achieve goals and being encouraged to challenge the status quo. 

To learn more about the diverse, important mahi we do at the Department and see why we're a great place to work check out our website https://www.dia.govt.nz/

Benefits - About Internal Affairs - Careers with us - Benefits - dia.govt.nz

The appointing range for this role is $137,963 - $171,688.

To review the full job description, please click here.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono

We are unable to accept applications via email. Please click the apply button to submit your application.

We're committed to ensuring our application process is accessible to everyone. Please let us know if there is any support, we can provide to ensure the process is accessible to you. 

Applications for this role close Sunday 2^nd August at 5pm. Please also note that you must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this role.

If you have any questions, please email Kirsty.pleace2@dia.govt.nz