Chief Economist

The Commerce Commission | Te Komihana Tauhokohoko is New Zealand's competition, consumer and economic regulatory agency. Our mission is to ensure New Zealand's markets are competitive, consumers and businesses are well informed, and sectors with little or no competition are appropriately regulated. As an independent Crown entity, we enforce laws relating to competition and fair trading.

About the Role

Reporting to the Chief Executive, this is a unique opportunity for an accomplished economist and executive leader to lead, develop and be accountable for our Economics branch. As the organisation's principal economics adviser and head of the economics profession, you will provide strategic leadership that strengthens our regulatory effectiveness, decision-making and influence.

You will lead a high-performing team of economists, setting the strategic direction for the branch and ensuring the Commission's decisions, investigations, market interventions and regulatory frameworks are informed by rigorous economic analysis and evidence. Working closely with Commissioners, the Board, Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team, you will bring contemporary economic insights and thought leadership to support our priorities and long-term impact for New Zealanders.

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will demonstrate collective impact and a One Commission mindset, contributing to our overall leadership and success. You will champion collaboration across the organisation, provide authoritative advice on complex economic issues, and represent the Commission as a respected voice in competition and regulatory economics both nationally and internationally.

About You

We are looking for an experienced and highly regarded economics leader who combines deep technical expertise with exceptional people leadership. You will bring a strong track record of applying economics to complex regulatory, competition, consumer or public policy issues and have credibility as a trusted adviser at executive and governance levels.

You will have expert knowledge of competition and regulatory economics, strong analytical and problem-solving capability, and the ability to translate complex technical concepts into practical and influential advice. You will be recognised for your ability to build high-performing teams, foster collaboration, and develop strong relationships across government, industry and consumer groups.

Ideally, you will bring senior leadership experience within a regulatory, economic, public policy or related environment, a postgraduate qualification in economics or a related discipline, and a passion for using economics to improve market performance and consumer outcomes for New Zealanders.

Apply Now

If you're an experienced economics leader passionate about shaping regulatory outcomes, influencing economic thinking and delivering meaningful impact for New Zealanders, this is your opportunity to lead a critical function within a dynamic organisation.

Please apply online with your cover letter and CV. For a confidential discussion, please contact Liz Martin, Talent Acquisition Manager on ••••@comcom.govt.nz.

Applications close on Sunday, 6 September 2026.