Principal Advisor Ethics Conduct and Fraud

Full job description
He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Principal Advisor Ethics Conduct and Fraud


We’re seeking a highly experienced Principal Advisor – Ethics, Conduct & Fraud to join Auckland Council’s Risk and Assurance team. This is a pivotal role where you’ll lead the Council’s approach to ethics, integrity and fraud response, helping shape a transparent, safe and inclusive culture across the Council and its Council-Controlled Organisations (CCOs).


In this role, (amongst other duties) you will lead and advise on internal investigations into ethics, conduct, and fraud, delivering high-quality reports, recommendations, and briefings to senior leaders and governance bodies. You’ll oversee protected disclosures in line with legislative requirements and support the Council’s external “speak up” provider, empowering staff to raise concerns safely and confidentially.


This is your chance to make a meaningful difference in one of New Zealand’s most complex public sector environments.


To read the full position description click here: Position Description Principal Adviser Ethics Conduct and Fraud


He kōrero mōu: About you


You’ll bring significant expertise in investigations, regulatory matters and ethical governance, with at least 10 years’ experience in ethics, fraud or internal audit roles. You have:


A strong understanding of probity in public service, including fraud and misconduct risk
Confidence working with elected members, senior leaders, and external providers
The ability to lead sensitive investigations and deliver clear, objective findings
Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills
A methodical, impartial and values-led approach, grounded in professionalism and discretion
Cultural competency and confidence with tikanga Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. CFE, CIA, CA, ISACA)

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer you


Auckland Council is one of the most complex and rewarding public service organisations in Aotearoa. We’re committed to fostering a high-integrity environment where people feel empowered to do what’s right.


We offer a range of employee benefits including:


Four weeks annual leave, plus an additional week after five years
Option to buy an additional week’s annual leave
Additional day of leave for community activities
Discounts on attractions and partnership benefits
Discounted Health & Life Insurance Policies

The band for this role is Band I with the budgeted salary range from $135k -$145k depending on skillset and experience.


Hei tono: Apply now


We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, including tangata whenua and people with diverse lived experiences. We are committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and improving Māori outcomes across Tāmaki Makaurau.


Please provide a bespoke cover letter for this role
You do not need to fill out the work experience fields if your CV is up to date
Applications close at midnight on 22 August 2025
If, after reading the advert and the Position Description, you have any general queries, please contact me via email in the first instance on gina.seward@aucklandocuncil.govt.nz

We look forward to receiving your application!


Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.

Employees in receipt of salary protection and/or on the predecessor Council terms and conditions of employment, please note that the salary protection and/or predecessor Council terms and conditions, including relocation, apply to your current position. Should you change to a new position (other than any secondment) you will be issued with a new employment letter of offer with current Auckland Council terms and conditions.