International Business

Globalisation, advancing technology and the accelerating pace of change in the geopolitical and economic arenas are creating an increasingly complex and competitive international trade environment. Success depends on understanding different markets, systems and cultures, developing strong business relationships, and implementing appropriate trade policy.

Working within this environment presents challenges to policy makers and organisations in the public and private sectors. It also provides opportunities for companies and individuals to take our goods and services to the world and grow the New Zealand economy.

New Zealand exports reached $105 billion in the year to March 2025. The was mainly from dairy, meat and wool, horticulture, forestry and tourism.

• Developing countries are experiencing the highest economic growth, offering new opportunities for global business.
• Populations in industrialised countries are aging, while many developing nations have youthful, growing populations.
• Innovation is accelerating, and more businesses in developing countries are gaining the skills to innovate effectively.
• Consumers are more informed and globally connected, with access to products and information from around the world.
• Competition is increasing as companies in developing markets benefit from lower labour costs, pushing Western firms to innovate and automate.
• Economic growth is slowing in both Western and emerging markets, leading to a more cautious global business environment.
• Clean technology and environmental sustainability are becoming central to business strategies worldwide.
• Trade tensions between major economies, such as disputes over tariffs and intellectual property, are forcing businesses to rethink their international strategies.
• Digital transformation is reshaping how businesses operate globally, from marketing to remote work.
• Supply chains are being redesigned to be more resilient and adaptable to global disruptions.
• Cross-cultural skills are increasingly important for working effectively in international teams and markets.
• Data analytics and business intelligence are essential tools for making informed global business decisions.

Geopolitical instability, trade fragmentation, and economic uncertainty continue to shape the global business landscape, with new tariffs and conflicts redrawing trade maps and challenging long-term planning. In this environment, New Zealand’s reputation for integrity, innovation, and resilience remains a valuable asset.

Businesses are increasingly turning to technology—particularly AI and automation—to drive productivity and growth, while exports are becoming a central strategy for international engagement.

Despite recent recessionary pressures, there is cautious optimism as New Zealand firms invest in digital transformation and seek new global opportunities in a rapidly evolving market.

• A global and multicultural perspective on business
• Relationship building and negotiating skills
  
• Cultural sensitivity
• Research design and situation analysis skills
• Problem solving skills
• Creative thinking
• The ability to work effectively in multicultural groups
• Written and oral communication skills (knowledge of another language is an advantage)
• Presentation skills
• Organisational ability and motivation

International Business prepares you for work in a variety of areas within internationally active organisations. 

Possible traditional and core roles include:

• Communications adviser 
• Content developer
• Corporate, investment or merchant banker
• Currency investment adviser
• Diplomat or Foreign service officer
• Export-import co-ordinator
• Global business analyst
• Global sales representative
• Global talent manager
• International accountant
• International business development adviser
  
• International economist
• International management adviser/consultant
• International nonprofit co-ordinator 
• Management analyst
• Policy analyst or adviser
• Project co-ordinator
• Sales/marketing/eCommerce assistant manager
• Supply chain/logistics co-ordinator
• Tourism manager

Possible emerging and future-focused roles:

• Digital Trade Strategist – Navigating cross-border e-commerce and digital trade agreements
• Sustainability & ESG Analyst – Ensuring global operations meet environmental, social, and governance standards
• AI Ethics Consultant in Global Business – Advising on responsible AI use across international markets
• Cross-Cultural UX Designer – Designing user experiences for diverse global audiences
• Global Cybersecurity Risk Analyst – Managing digital risks in international operations
• International Data Privacy Officer – Ensuring compliance with global data protection laws (e.g., GDPR, NZ Privacy Act)
• Remote Workforce Integration Manager – Coordinating international teams and virtual collaboration
• Circular Economy Consultant – Helping global firms transition to sustainable production and consumption models
• International Innovation Facilitator – Driving cross-border innovation partnerships and startup ecosystems
• Global Digital Transformation Lead – Leading tech adoption and change management in multinational firms

These are just a few career examples—don’t feel limited to them. Some roles may require several years of work experience, additional study, or certifications, especially in academic or specialist fields.

Remember, many employers welcome graduates from a wide range of degree backgrounds. And if you have big ideas of your own, you might consider developing and managing a start-up in the entrepreneurial space.

Social media platforms like LinkedIn can also help you stay up to date with industry trends, events, and job opportunities.

Many New Zealand businesses are looking to expand into the global market, creating a need for graduates who are well versed in international business. Graduates can explore career opportunities with exporters, importers, global consumer or industrial goods manufacturers, financial service providers, travel and tourism operators, trade promotion agencies and development agencies.

Examples of New Zealand companies who conduct business overseas include Fonterra, Xero, Hamilton Jet, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, Weta and Zespri. Examples of Government ministries and agencies include the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE).

International Business graduate profiles

• NZ Trade and Enterprise (NZTE)
  NZTE is New Zealand's international business development agency. Its purpose is to grow businesses internationally.
• Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
  MBIE is the government’s lead business-facing agency. Its purpose is to grow the New Zealand economy to provide a better standard of living for all New Zealanders.
• TradeWorks
  TradeWorks is the website of the New Zealand International Business Forum, which has comprehensive information about trade and investment and why they are important to New Zealand.
• ExportNZ
  ExportNZ is a division of BusinessNZ. The BusinessNZ family has its roots in four large regional organisations of member businesses that together cover the entire country.
• Asia New Zealand Foundation
  The Asia New Zealand Foundation is New Zealand's leading non-government authority on Asia.

Careers New Zealand

The Careers New Zealand website provides useful salary information for a range of business and industry roles, as well as information on the difference a qualification makes to what you are paid, and advice on negotiating your salary. You can also search for salary information by job.

Careers New Zealand

Prospects

Prospects specialises in advice for UK university students and graduates. Much of the information is relevant to New Zealand students.

Prospects