Principal Advisor

Frog Recruitment; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Frog Recruitment in Wellington, NZ, is seeking a Principal Advisor to lead the development of high-quality advice for Ministers on complex policy issues. You will oversee policy projects, coach staff, and shape sound frameworks that guide decision-making.

This senior role requires strong policy leadership, experience across the education sector, and the ability to apply Treaty principles. You will build relationships with stakeholders and drive meaningful policy initiatives in the social sector.

Qualifications

• Requires proven experience as a senior policy leader in a complex environment.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver integrated strategic policy advice.
• Ability to apply Treaty principles in policy development.

Responsibilities

• Lead and undertake analysis and advice on a broad range of complex policy issues.
• Produce rigorous, high-quality policy research and advice informed by operational considerations.
• Develop advice that advances outcomes for diverse stakeholders.
• Supervise, coach, and mentor junior staff while overseeing policy projects.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders to facilitate effective policy implementation.

Skills

Senior leadership

Strategic policy advice

Treaty principles

Communication

Job description

About The Role

The Principal Advisor leads the development of high-quality advice for Ministers on complex policy issues in assigned areas. This role involves leading policy projects and overseeing associated staff, developing sound frameworks, and leading policy development processes. As a leader within the policy community, the Principal Advisor will provide support and coaching to other staff.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and undertake analysis and advice on a broad range of complex policy issues
• Produce rigorous, high-quality policy research and advice informed by operational considerations
• Develop advice that advances outcomes for diverse stakeholders
• Supervise, coach, and mentor junior staff while overseeing policy projects
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders to facilitate effective policy implementation.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in senior policy leadership within a complex environment
• Strong capability in developing and delivering integrated strategic policy advice
• Demonstrated ability to apply Treaty principles in policy development
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to present complex issues clearly.

What’s in it for you

• Opportunity to influence significant social sector policies in New Zealand
• Work in a supportive, high-performing team environment
• Contribute to meaningful policy initiatives that impact the education sector.