General Manager, Products

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Ministry of Education seeks a General Manager, Products to define and deliver customer value through a portfolio of digital and data products. You will shape vision, strategy and roadmaps, aligning with priorities across Aotearoa’s education system.

You will lead a team of Product Managers, driving high performance and continuous improvement while partnering with Practice Centres to ensure governance and measurable outcomes for learners and educators.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in digital and data product management within complex organisations.
• Experience leading and developing high-performing product teams with a culture of continuous improvement.
• Strong understanding of product management frameworks (Agile, Lean, human-centred design).
• Ability to define product vision and strategy using data and value-based prioritisation.

Responsibilities

• Define and deliver customer value through a portfolio of products.
• Shape investment decisions and roadmaps aligned with strategy and priorities.
• Lead and develop a high-performing product management team.
• Collaborate with Practice Centres and governance bodies to ensure effective delivery.

Skills

Digital product management

Leadership

Agile

Stakeholder engagement

Strategy development

Job description

Help shape the future of education in New Zealand

Strengthening Education

The Ministry of Education plays a critical role in shaping New Zealand's education system to deliver equitable and excellent outcomes for all learners. We are reshaping how the Ministry is organised to sharpen our focus on core priorities, be outward-facing and evidence-led, and build a strong organisational culture. We are seeking exceptional leaders who can navigate complexity, lead change, and deliver meaningful outcomes for learners and educators across Aotearoa.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

The General Manager, Products is a senior leadership role within Te Pou Kōrero | Digital and Data, reporting to the Hautū | Deputy Secretary. You will be responsible for defining and delivering customer value through a portfolio of products, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy, customer needs and business priorities. You will shape the future direction and investment profile of these products, working closely with Business Owners to establish a clear product vision, strategy and roadmaps, and ensuring products are continuously evolved to deliver measurable outcomes for customers and the organisation. As a member of the Te Pou Kōrero senior leadership team, you will lead and develop a team of Product Managers, building a high-performing product management practice grounded in consistent, value-driven decision-making. You will partner closely with Practice Centres to ensure effective delivery of product enhancements aligned with agreed strategies, while maintaining strong governance to support transparency and accountability across the product lifecycle.

About you | Mōhou ake

You will bring:

• Extensive experience in Digital and Data product management within complex organisations, with a track record of delivering customer-centred products at scale
• Experience leading and developing high-performing product teams and building a culture of continuous improvement
• Strong understanding of product management frameworks (Agile, Lean, human-centred design) and how to apply them to strategic outcomes
• Demonstrated ability to define product vision and strategy, shaping investment decisions using data and value-based prioritisation
• Strong strategic thinking, translating organisational priorities into clear product roadmaps
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, including with senior leaders and cross-functional teams
• Ability to collaborate effectively with delivery and technical teams to align strategy with execution
• Knowledge of digital technologies, platforms and emerging trends, along with investment planning and portfolio governance experience
• An understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a willingness to uphold the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct

About the group | Mātau rōpū ake

This role sits within Te Pou Kōrero | Digital and Data, the Ministry's business group responsible for digital products and data capability that support the education system. As part of the senior leadership team, you will help build a high-performing, customer-centred product practice that delivers real value to learners, educators, and the wider sector.

Ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If you're a product leader who can turn complexity into clear direction and build a team that delivers, this is your chance to shape the products that support Aotearoa's education system.

Applications close Thursday 1 October 2026.

We want our candidates to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.