Advisor, Policy Project (Fixed Term or Secondment)

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 79,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) invites applications for a Wellington-based Advisor in the Policy Project. This fixed-term opportunity provides cover for an internal secondment until the end of March 2027.

You will develop engaging communications, newsletters and briefing material for policy practitioners across government. You’ll coordinate programmes and events, build relationships across agencies, and contribute to AI and the future of policymaking efforts.

Qualifications

• Strong writing and communication skills to turn complex information into clear, useful content.
• Organised and able to manage competing priorities and deliver activities on track.
• Build relationships with agencies, stakeholders and senior leaders with sound judgement.
• Curious about AI and how digital tools can improve policy work.
• Willing to learn and develop understanding of government and policymaking.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver clear, engaging communications across newsletters, website content, stakeholder updates and briefing material.
• Coordinate programmes, cross-agency initiatives, events and workshops, keeping activities organised.
• Build relationships across the policy community from early-career practitioners to senior policy leaders.
• Communicate with stakeholders and leaders professionally, with attention to detail.
• Support development of policy capability resources and workshops across government.

Skills

Strong writing and communication

Organisation and delivery

Relationship-building

Digital confidence and AI curiosity

Initiative and willingness to learn

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent knowledge

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

Wellington-based | Fixed-term or Secondment to end of March 2027 | full-timeBring your writing, organisation and digital skills to a role that connects you with policy people across the public service. You'll help make practical policy tools, training and resources easier to find and use, while gaining valuable experience in a small, supportive team at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC).About the roleThe Policy Project is part of DPMC's Policy Advisory Group. It works across government to strengthen policy capability and improve the quality of policy advice.As an Advisor, you'll help the team communicate its work, bring people together and deliver activities that support policy practitioners.You'll also contribute to work exploring artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of policymaking.This is a fixed-term opportunity providing cover for an internal secondment until the end of March 2027.What you'll be doingIn this role, you'll:Develop and deliver clear, engaging communications, including the Policy Project newsletter, website content, stakeholder updates, event communications and briefing material.Help coordinate programmes, cross-agency initiatives, events and workshops, keeping activities organised and on track.Build relationships across the policy community, from early-career practitioners to senior policy leaders, and be a reliable point of contact for agencies and stakeholders.Communicate with stakeholders and senior leaders professionally, using sound judgement and attention to detail.Support the development and delivery of policy capability resources, workshops and other activities that help policy practitioners across government.Find practical ways to improve processes, systems and ways of working, including supporting the team's work on AI and the future of policymaking.What you'll bringWe're looking for someone with strong potential, fresh thinking and the motivation to make a meaningful contribution. You don't need years of policy experience, but you'll bring a great foundation of skills, digital confidence and an appetite to learn and grow.The things that matter most are:Strong writing and communication skills: You can turn complex information into clear, useful content, tailor your message to different audiences and pay close attention to detail.Organisation and delivery: You can manage competing priorities, keep activities on track and follow through on commitments, ensuring important details aren't overlooked.Relationship-building and sound judgement: You communicate professionally, build trust with different people and know how to adapt your approach when working with colleagues, stakeholders and senior leaders.Digital confidence and curiosity about AI: You're comfortable using Microsoft 365 and collaborative digital tools, with an interest in generative AI and how it might improve the way people work. You understand the importance of accuracy, privacy, information security and responsible technology use.Initiative and a willingness to learn: You ask thoughtful questions, look for practical ways to improve things and are interested in developing your understanding of government and policymaking.You don't need to be a technical or AI specialist. We're interested in someone who is comfortable learning new digital tools, thinks critically about how they can be used and is keen to keep developing their skills.A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent knowledge is required. You'll also need to be able to obtain and maintain a Confidential security clearance.Salary: Approximately $72,000 per annum (Total REM inclusive of KiwiSaver)About The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet | Te Tari o te Pirimia me te Rūnanga KāwanatangaThe Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) supports the government of the day by leading, advising, stewarding and delivering activities across the public sector, and by providing dedicated advice and support to the Governor-General, Prime Minister and portfolio Ministers.Why Join Us? | Nā te aha i Tūhono Mai Ai Ki a Mātou?You'll learn from colleagues who work with policy practitioners and leaders across government, and gain experience in communications, engagement, programme coordination and emerging digital tools. Your work will help more people make use of resources that strengthen policy advice across the public service.How to Apply – Me pēhea te tono:Click 'Apply now' to submit your tailored cover letter and CV. All applications must be made online. If you are applying for this role as a secondment, please ensure you have discussed the opportunity with your current manager and have their support before submitting your application.Applications close Monday 19 October 2026. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we may progress suitable candidates through the recruitment process before the closing date.Please note we are only able to consider applicants who have the current right to work in New Zealand.