OPCAT Strategy & Performance Principal Advisor

Nz Ombudsman; Wellington; On-site; NZD 136,000 - 178,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working options

Competitive remuneration

Onsite gym and personal trainer

Three office holidays between Xmas and

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Job summary

New Zealand Ombudsman is seeking a Principal Advisor – OPCAT in Wellington. The role provides strategic, analytical, and advisory leadership focused on OPCAT work, guiding initiatives, performance monitoring, and reporting to influence public sector accountability.

You will lead complex strategy projects, work with senior leaders, and mentor teams to develop capability in evidence-based advisory work within the Ombudsman’s governance framework.

Qualifications

• To be successful in this role you will have a relevant tertiary qualification in public or administrative law or related discipline.
• Deep understanding of the Ombudsman jurisdiction and its role in contemporary society.
• Extensive understanding of national and international law relevant to Ombudsman functions, including human rights.
• Experience with strategic analysis, policy analysis/development, statutory interpretation, and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Provide authoritative strategic, analytical, and advisory expertise to support long-term priorities and performance.
• Lead complex pieces of work, including strategy development and performance monitoring.
• Ensure evidence-based, transparent work that influences public sector performance and accountability.
• Mentor and develop the team to grow analytical and advisory capability.

Skills

Public law

Admin law

Strategic analysis

Policy analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Advisory capability

Mentoring

Leadership

Analytical writing

Interpreting law

Education

Tertiary qualification in public or admin law

Job description

New Zealand Ombudsman is seeking a Principal Advisor – OPCAT in Wellington. The role provides strategic, analytical, and advisory leadership focused on OPCAT work, guiding initiatives, performance monitoring, and reporting to influence public sector accountability.

You will lead complex strategy projects, work with senior leaders, and mentor teams to develop capability in evidence-based advisory work within the Ombudsman’s governance framework.