Judges Personal Assistant

Public Defence Service - New Zealand; Whanganui; On-site; NZD 59,000 - 81,000; Part time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Personal Assistant to support Judges at the Palmerston North District Court. This part-time role requires someone who can provide exceptional secretarial and administrative support, manage busy schedules, and communicate effectively in a legal environment. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic setting, demonstrating strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks under pressure. Join a supportive team committed to upholding justice and enhancing the efficiency of court operations, while enjoying a range of benefits that promote professional development and well-being.

Benefits

4.4 weeks holiday leave

Online professional development portal

Access to inclusive networks

Qualifications

• Experience in providing executive assistance in a busy environment.
• Strong communication and organization skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide secretarial support to Judges, managing diaries and communications.
• Prepare documentation and assist with court-related tasks.

Skills

Executive assistance

Secretarial support

Communication skills

Events management

General office duties

Computer-based applications

Liaison skills

Problem solving

Audio-typing

Attention to detail

Job description

Job Description

Judges Personal Assistant (Permanent Part time – 20 hours)

Palmerston North District Court

Te Haeata/The Opportunity

We are looking for someone to hit the ground running to provide professional secretarial and administrative support to the Judges of Palmerston North District Court. You will support the judiciary on a one-to-one basis with a variety of tasks relating to the Judges' work schedules. You will be working alongside another full time Judges PA.

The Judges' PA is the main conduit for the judiciary for all communication coming into Chambers; managing Judges' diaries; arranging Judges' travel and accommodation for matters such as Court hearings, conferences and seminars; preparing documentation including judgments, Court minutes, presentations, minutes of meetings and reports; organising venue bookings and catering for conferences when required; and assisting visitors to the Chambers area.

The Judges PA role involves a high degree of self-direction with the ability to work autonomously as well as in a geographically spread team. A high level of empowerment, responsibility and accountability is expected.

Ō Pūkenga/Skills And Experience

To be successful in the role you will have the following experience and technical skills:

1. Previous experience providing executive assistance, personal assistance or secretarial support to a diversified team of managers in a complex and busy environment.
2. Previous experience in a legal or court environment is an advantage.
3. Experience in communicating effectively with individuals and groups (written and oral), including in situations which can be volatile or sensitive.
4. Experience in events management and/or organising and co-ordinating activities and individuals at a senior level.
5. Experience in general office duties, operating equipment etc.
6. Experience in working with a wide range of computer-based secretarial, administrative, and presentation applications.
7. Experience using liaison skills; especially with Maori, and networking ability.
8. Ability to work at a high level of independence, professionalism and self-initiation.
9. Demonstrates a strong level of organisation and problem solving, and the ability to prioritise work effectively and meet deadlines.
10. Accurate audio-typing speed of at least 60 words per minute.
11. High standard of written English (comprehension, punctuation, spelling and grammar) and a high level of attention to detail.
12. Composure under pressure and being adaptable.

Your goal will be to maximise the Judges' ability to carry out their judicial and extra judicial responsibilities effectively.

Mō mātou/About us

At Te Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to strengthening people's trust in the law of Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Joining Te Tāhū o te Ture means you will become part of an organisation that welcomes and supports people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities and religions.

Ngā painga o tēnei wāhi mahi/What's great about working here

Benefits

We offer you a range of benefits to support your wellbeing and help make the Ministry a great place to be. These include:

1. 4.4 weeks holiday leave.
2. An online professional development portal.
3. Access to a variety of inclusive and proactive networks.

See our full range of benefits here.

With a wide range of jobs, you also get the chance to gain a variety of skills and experience while developing your career.

Utu ā-tau/Salary

The appointing salary for this role will be between $59,729 and $80,794 based on skills and experience. Please note remuneration will be paid on a pro rata basis.

Tono mai/Apply

To apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.

Applications close on 9 May 2025; however, we will be reviewing CVs as they come in and inviting successful candidates to interview before the close date.

If you have any questions, please contact [e-mail].

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