- Strengthen Anti‑Money Laundering (AML) supervision and enforcement capability at Tonga’s central bank
- Full‑time technical advisory assignment for up to 12 months (with potential extension)
- Based in Nuku’alofa, Tonga – flexibility for remote engagement considered.
The New Zealand Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), is partnering with the National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) to strengthen regulatory oversight and institutional capacity in Anti‑Money Laundering (AML) supervision.
MFAT and NRBT are seeking an experienced Technical Adviser to provide specialist AML supervisory expertise, support implementation of amended legislation, and build sustainable capability across NRBT teams. This role will contribute to protecting the integrity of Tonga’s financial system and strengthening compliance with international AML standards.
This is a senior technical advisory position, embedded within the National Reserve Bank of Tonga, working closely with the Governor, senior management, AML supervisors, and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). The Adviser will also engage regularly with MFAT and other development partners to ensure alignment with broader support programmes.
The Key Functions of the Technical Adviser include:
- Strengthening NRBT’s AML supervisory capacity across financial institutions, money transfer operators (MTOs), and designated non‑financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs).
- Developing and institutionalising a risk‑based AML supervision and enforcement framework.
- Supporting implementation of the amended Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act (MLPCA) and associated regulations.
- Developing supervisory manuals, policies, procedures, and tools to support effective AML oversight.
- Providing hands‑on mentoring, training, and coaching to NRBT staff to ensure sustainable skills transfer.
- Advising on data management, supervisory technology, and information security improvements.
- Coordinating with relevant domestic agencies and stakeholders involved in combating financial crime.
- Providing regular progress updates and contributing to reporting to MFAT and NRBT leadership.
The qualifications and expertise required to be successful in this role will include:
- A postgraduate qualification (master’s degree or higher) in economics, finance, public policy, law, or a related discipline.
- Significant professional experience (7–10+ years) in AML, financial sector supervision, central banking, or financial regulation.
- Strong technical knowledge of AML/CFT frameworks, risk‑based supervision, and enforcement practices.
- Experience supporting regulatory or institutional strengthening, ideally in Pacific Island countries or other small or developing economies.
- Proven capability in delivering training, mentoring, and on‑the‑job capacity building.
- Excellent analytical, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to work effectively in cross‑cultural environments.
- High levels of professionalism, integrity, discretion, and cultural awareness.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced AML or financial regulatory professional to deliver meaningful system‑level impact while supporting institutional strengthening within Tonga’s central financial authority.
The initial assignment is expected to commence from July 2026 and will be for up to 12 months, with the possibility of extension subject to performance and funding availability. The role is expected to be full time and will be required to spend a minimum of six months in‑country in Tonga over the contract period, with at least the first 2–3 months based in Tonga to support establishment, relationship‑building, and initial delivery.
The successful appointee will be expected to operate professionally, uphold MFAT’s requirements for conduct while working overseas, and work respectfully within Tonga’s cultural and institutional context.
Closing date for applications: 5:00pm (NZ Time) on Tuesday 19th May 2026
Hudson Global Resources has been engaged to manage this procurement process. For all correspondence, queries, or to obtain a copy of the full Position Description, please contact:
Jessica Middlemiss
Practice Lead, NZ
Phone: +64 27 277 4865
Email: jessica.middlemiss@hudson.com
Full job description: Download here
You are also welcome to apply directly via this link: https://bit.ly/48tu4gH
