Spy agency search for new director

Ever fancy yourself as a bit of James Bond? Then you should apply for this role. Photo / Getty Images

Ever fancy yourself as a bit of James Bond or an international man of mystery? Then New Zealand's spy agency may have a job for you.

The Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB), the country's foreign intelligence agency criticised for illegal spying on New Zealanders in recent years, is looking to hire a new deputy director of intelligence.

In an advertisement placed in The New Zealand Herald's Business section today, the agency is scouting for candidates with "significant experience" in foreign intelligence or a closely related field".

"Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to deliver world class intelligence that is indispensable to New Zealand government decision makers and responsive to their changing needs?" the advert asks.

A shakeup of the bureau was ordered in 2013 after it emerged that it had illegally spied on internet mogul Kim Dotcom and more than 80 Kiwis.

The position is described as a "critical tier two role", based in Wellington.

The new deputy director of intelligence will be responsible for the leadership and on-going development of the foreign intelligence function within the GCSB.

"To be successful as the Deputy Director Intelligence you will ideally have significant experience in foreign intelligence or a closely related field and be able to guide the Intelligence Directorate through a period of rapid business and technological change," the advert says.

"If you are a talented leader with experience in change management looking for an exciting and challenging executive leadership role, we look forward to hearing from you."

Applications close on July 6.

POTENTIAL SPY CHIEF CANDIDATES

• James Bond - the world's most famous (fictional) spy.

• Austin Powers - the world's spoofiest international many of mystery.

• Kim Dotcom - an expert in "technological change", a desirable GCSB quality

• Colin Craig - Could be in the job hunt market

• Richie McCaw - potential post-rugby career?