This role is based in Wellington.
Who we are:
Te Taurapa Tūhono | New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is New Zealand’s international business development agency. We exist for one purpose – to grow businesses internationally, bigger, better, faster for the good of New Zealand. We use our extensive knowledge and global networks to help Kiwi businesses turn their global ambitions into reality.
In the Export Customers team, we have a fantastic leadership opportunity to power up our offering, delivering greater impact to export businesses across New Zealand.
What you’ll be doing:
You will inspire, coach, guide and grow your team of Customer Managers based in Wellington, New Plymouth and Dunedin. You’ll motivate your team to set ambitious goals aligned with our strategy and provide clarity on the vital role they play in delivering exceptional growth for customers across a range of sectors, and deliver innovative solutions that drive measurable business growth.
You will play a key role in ensuring our global teams work together to provide a seamless personal and digital experience focused on growth for every customer, every time.
You will be skilled at nurturing and growing a high performing team, with a keen focus on development and operational excellence. You will influence NZTE strategy, culture and priorities through your strong understanding of kiwi export businesses, and the empathy and ambition you carry for their journey. A champion of innovation, you will be deeply connected from the start up eco-system through to established business networks. You will capitalise on your networking ability and contacts to fly the flag for Kiwi businesses within your own portfolio and wider sector networks.
What you’ll need to be successful:
You’re already a leader who inspires people, in your team and in your wider circles. Leading high performing and high functioning teams is something you’re passionate about. You are well connected and love finding ways to collaborate with others, both within your own organisation and externally to get the best results. You encourage open communication, feedback, and accountability. You are someone who leans into challenges and difficult conversations to ensure your team is achieving success and learning from their mistakes.
You'll be a culture driver who leads by example and embeds integrity, collaboration, and innovation into everything you do. You create a respectful environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and people feel empowered to contribute, promoting continuous learning and experimentation. You encourage open communication, feedback, and accountability to strengthen team cohesion.
Proven experience in driving innovation and delivering growth within commercial environments, along with strong sector knowledge and connections, is essential. Strong commercial acumen and a track record of navigating international markets and developing and executing export strate