At the FMA, the work you do counts. We lead better, fairer outcomes for investors, consumers and New Zealanders. Our innovative people drive the evolution of the financial sector, influencing the industry and effecting positive change. At the FMA, the work you do has a significant impact.

The FMA's remit and regulatory approach are expanding and evolving to have a stronger focus on conduct. We're currently on an exciting journey, to enable the growth of our organisation.

The Role - Te Tūranga

Due to an internal promotion and FMA's expanding remit, we currently have opportunities (one permanent position and another 12-month fixed term contract) for Solicitors or Advisers to join our busy Policy team, within our General Counsel function in either Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch. We have flexibility regarding the level of these roles - those with 5+ years' relevant experience can be considered for a Senior Solicitor or Senior Adviser position. We are also open to considering a secondment.

In this varied and dynamic role, you'll ultimately be responsible for delivering effective regulatory policy advice and expertise, ensuring our development and application of regulatory policy reinforces our regulatory strategy and reputation as an agile, effective, proactive and respected regulator. Some of the key pieces of work our team are involved in include:

• Working with MBIE, the Reserve Bank and other agencies on developing and implementing significant pieces of law reform such as the Financial Markets (Conduct of Institutions) Amendment Bill, insurance contract law review, AML statutory review, and Deposit Takers Bill
• Inputting into KiwiSaver policy
• Keeping under review the law and practices relating to financial markets
• Leading and contributing to significant pieces of FMA guidance such as liquidity risk management guidance for managed funds
• Developing new class exemptions and reviewing existing class exemptions

The work we're involved in is as challenging as it is interesting. Being in a policy role within a regulator gives you the unique opportunity to work with market experts and frontline teams that are licensing and monitoring market participants, as well as working on the development and continuous improvement of financial markets legislation, FMA legislative tools and guidance.

About you - Ō pūkenga

We are open to applications from candidates with various backgrounds in policy, law, regulation, or financial markets, provided you can demonstrate an excellent knowledge of laws and regulations relevant to the financial sector (ideally), or a transferable regulatory system, along with a proven ability to interact with stakeholders. If you're a lawyer you can try out policy and if you're a policy professional with a law degree here's your opportunity to be a lawyer.  

While a Law degree is useful, it is not essential if you are able to bring at least 3 years' relevant experience dealing with regulatory policy or legislation and have a keen interest in the regulation of financial products and services in New Zealand. Your ability to take ownership and get the job done in a positive and outcome focused manner whilst remaining open to other relevant views and options will allow you to truly excel in this role. 

What we offer - Ngā painga

You'll be joining a supportive team culture, go through a comprehensive FMA induction programme and have ongoing opportunities for professional development and continuous learning through our extensive L&D programme.

A strong emphasis is placed on your life outside the workplace, we support flexible working arrangements and offer a range of wellness and social activities, such as regular social events and Wellbeing Sessions - we even have our very own dedicated FunSquad who organise creative ways for all FMAers to connect and socialise.

If this sounds like you, click HERE TO APPLY


Open to considering anyone with a legal qualification with 3+ years Policy experience, can be based in either Wellington, Auckland or CHCH. View position description here. To view the Senior position description or for other confidential enquiries you can contact Rebecca Cleaver on [email protected]. Applications close Friday 9 September. 

The Financial Markets Authority is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and is committed to maintaining an inclusive culture where all employees have the opportunity to reach their potential.  We recognise that our continued success is dependent on the performance and ability of our employees.