About Earth Sciences NZ:
Earth Sciences NZ was established on 1 July 2025 through the merger of GNS and NIWA, with the upcoming acquisition of MetService further strengthening its capabilities. Bringing together multidisciplinary expertise and advanced technology, it will excel in earth, environmental, and natural resources science across six core missions: Geological Hazards, Weather and Climate, Energy, Land and Freshwater, Atmosphere and Climate, and Oceans.
This new entity forms part of the most significant reform to New Zealand’s science and innovation system in more than three decades, designed to create a more dynamic, collaborative, and impactful science system. Following the acquisition of MetService, Earth Sciences NZ will comprise around 1,500 staff across 22 sites, with assets of approximately $400 million and annual revenues of $370 million, including substantial commercial streams. This provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of science delivery for Aotearoa New Zealand and position the organisation as a globally recognised leader in its field. For more information, visit https://www.earthsciences.nz/
The Role:
As Chief People and Transformation Officer (CPTO), you will lead a unified people strategy and drive a multi-year organisational transformation. This pivotal role will integrate three cultures, embed sustainable new ways of working, and foster collaboration while supporting scientific excellence.
- Lead the design and execution of a transformation strategy, including post-merger integration, operating model alignment, and cultural unification.
- Guide the organisation through a complex programme of change that spans integration of people, systems, science platforms, and infrastructure.
- Shape and deliver a people strategy that supports organisational effectiveness, scientific impact, and a high-performance, inclusive culture.
- Oversee HR operations, workforce planning, leadership development, and organisational design, ensuring robust systems and compliance.
- Inspire and develop high-performing teams, fostering a culture of innovation, equity, and continuous improvement.
- Build influential relationships with internal stakeholders, unions, sector partners.
Background, Skills and Experience:
The ideal candidate will possess leadership experience beyond HR. You will be a business executive with a proven track record in transformation, workforce integration, and cultural change. You bring commercial acumen, strategic vision, and the ability to influence at all levels.
- Extensive experience leading large-scale transformation and workforce integration, ideally in complex, multi-site environments.
- Deep expertise in people strategy, organisational development, and culture transformation.
- Proven ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams, with a focus on fostering innovation and continuous improvement.
- Skilled in stakeholder engagement, union negotiation, and building trust across employee groups.
- Demonstrated commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
This is a rare and meaningful leadership opportunity to support positioning New Zealand as a leader in earth science research and innovation.
Apply now via Seek or for more information, please contact Anastasia Gyson at Hobson Leavy Executive Search: anastasia.gyson@hobsonleavy.com
Applications close at 5.00pm NZT on Friday 3rd October 2025
