Plans, organises, directs, controls and reviews the operations and major functions of organisational units of the New Zealand Defence Forces through subordinate officers.

• Provides strategic direction and management, directs subordinates to meet objectives, achieve specific goals; plans manoeuvres, policy and ensures set standards are meet; consults with immediate subordinates and fellow defence heads (where appropriate) on such matters as methods of operation, equipment required and personnel; studies and analyses relevant data, reviews recommendations and reports, takes responsibility for preparation and presentation of information to the appropriate arms of military forces; decides or approves senior (and/or other) appointments; authorises missions, along with government approval; represents military arm at conferences, negotiations, official occasions, and liaises with other organisations.

• Frequently works indoors in offices and meeting rooms.
• Frequently stands and walks around the workplace, for example moving between barracks or on parade ground.
• Occasionally works outdoors when travelling to other military installations, directing field scenarios or engaging in joint exercises with other arms of the military forces.
• Constantly works in adequately heated, ventilated and clean, well maintained workspaces.

• This is sedentary work with frequent to constant sitting in offices or in meetings.
• Standing and walking is occasionally required.
• Lifting, carrying or pulling is likely to be frequent, but unlikely to exceed sedentary demand.
• Bending, squatting or crouching is unlikely to be required
• Repetitive hand and finger movements are not significant components of the job but are occasionally required when using hand-held objects/equipment including pens, telephones and calculators and using a keyboard and mouse.
• There is occasional driving of cars.
• Occasionally may travel by car, boat, helicopter, plane, or other military vehicle.
• Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with communication, interpersonal, organisational, problem solving, critical thinking and decision-making capabilities.

• A relevant tertiary qualification or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

• There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.