Principal Advisor, Sector Engagement

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 146,000; Full time

Job summary

New Zealand Government, Education Ministry, is seeking a permanent, full-time leader to drive engagement with the education sector across Aotearoa New Zealand. You will shape the engagement strategy, lead engagement initiatives with sector partners, and advise senior leaders to reflect the sector’s voice in system improvements.

The role offers a salary range of NZD 120,171 to NZD 145,560 per annum, plus KiwiSaver, with appointment based on experience and skills.

Qualifications

• Identify opportunities and risks and influence system level decision making.
• Demonstrate sound political awareness and navigate government processes.
• Provide strategic advice and influence decision making.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for engagement with the education sector across Aotearoa New Zealand to improve learner outcomes.
• Shape the engagement strategy and lead engagement initiatives with education sector partners.
• Advise senior leaders in the Ministry on engagement matters.

Skills

Strategic engagement

Political awareness

Strategic advice

Job description

Help shape the future of education in New Zealand Help shape the future of Education We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.

About this role

Permanent | Full time You will provide strategic leadership for engagement with the education sector across Aotearoa New Zealand to improve outcomes for learners with additional needs. You will shape the engagement strategy and lead engagement initiatives, building trusted relationships with education sector partners, to ensure their voice is reflected in system improvements. You will also provide advice to senior leaders in the Ministry. Salary range: $120,171 - $145,560 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience. For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here.

About you

• A proven ability to identify opportunities and risks and to influence system level decision making
• Sound political awareness and an ability to navigate government processes
• An ability to provide strategic advice and influence decision making
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team

We’re a new team in the Learning Support System Design and Practice Group accountable for leading the design and implementation of learning support services and delivery approaches, that are user-friendly and meet the diverse needs of educators and students at an individual, regional and national level.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

For further information, please contact Rachael Vink, General Manager, Learning Support System Design and Practice at [e-mail]

Applications close Midnight – 18 November 2026

We want our people 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.