Principal Audit Manager

About the role

Reporting to the Chief Internal Auditor, the Principal Audit Manager leads the Principal Audit Unit within the New Zealand Defence Force. Based in Wellington CBD, the role oversees internal audit services across the organisation, ensuring strategic relevance and high-quality advisory.

Key responsibilities

• Manage three direct reports and a team of 13 to deliver internal audit and advisory services.
• Provide strategic, high-quality audit reports and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Coach, develop and mentor audit staff to build capability and support career progression.
• Promote the internal audit function as a trusted advisor and champion hybrid, flexible working practices.
• Lead audit assignments across diverse NZDF environments, including camps, bases, overseas posts, health services and supply chain operations.
• Travel domestically and internationally as required to conduct audits in dispersed locations.

Required profile

• Senior-level experience in audit, assurance or business advisory.
• Proven project-management ability to handle multiple concurrent assignments.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to produce clear, actionable reports for varied audiences.
• Demonstrated success in leading and developing audit teams.
• NZ citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain Top Secret security clearance.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hybrid working model with flexible arrangements after the team is established.
• Opportunity to influence audit practice across a national defence organisation.
• Professional development and mentorship opportunities.
• Occasional domestic and international travel.