Senior Advisor, Security and Information Management

Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, New Zealand; Wellington; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A government department in Wellington is seeking a Senior Security Advisor to oversee protective security and manage security clearances. The role requires extensive experience in both protective security assurance and classified information management, focusing on compliance, risk management, and training. Applicants must be New Zealand citizens or hold appropriate residency status. Join a high-performing team contributing to national security and public service excellence.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in protective security assurance in fields such as intelligence, investigation, national security clearances, or classified environments.
• Proven experience in a classified information management environment or within a security-focused role in government or defence sectors.
• Previous experience in information management, records administration, or similar roles in high-security contexts is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the department's protective security and security clearance processes.
• Ensure compliance with national security standards and manage risks.
• Provide expert advice, training, and promote security awareness.

Skills

Comprehensive knowledge of the PSR

Experience in protective security assurance

Experience in classified information management

Knowledge of records lifecycle management

Ability to guide staff on security policies

Job description

Overview

Wellington-based | Permanent, Full-time role

The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) occupies a unique space within the heart of government supporting the government of the day by leading, advising, stewarding and delivering activities across the public sector, and by providing dedicated advice and support to the Governor-General, Prime Minister and portfolio Ministers.

Working at DPMC means being at the centre of some of the most significant and impactful work in Aotearoa New Zealand. This role presents an opportunity to lead and contribute to the security and well-being of New Zealanders, working with smart and motivated people in an environment that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence.

You'll be part of a high-performing organisation that prioritises professional development and a small collegial team that works with all areas of the Department.

About the Role

Mō te Tūranga

Senior Security Advisors lead the department's protective security, security clearance processes, and classified information management to protect classified information, secure facilities, and sensitive operations. They ensure compliance with national security standards, manage risks, and build organisational capability by providing expert advice, training, and promoting a strong culture of security awareness.

Key Responsibilities

• Protective Security
• Security Clearance Management
• Information security and management in a classified environment
• Compliance and Reporting
• Stakeholder Engagement

About You

Mōu Anō

To succeed in this role, you will bring

• Comprehensive knowledge of the PSR.
• Extensive experience in protective security assurance in fields such as intelligence, investigation, national security clearances, or classified environments.
• Proven experience working in a classified information management environment or within a security-focused role in government or defence sectors
• Previous experience in information management, records administration, or similar roles in high-security contexts is highly desirable.
• Working knowledge of records lifecycle management, metadata practices, and secure document handling.
• Experience in managing and coordinating security clearances and providing support in high-security environments.
• Ability to train and guide staff on security policies, clearance protocols, and handling classified information.

Even if you don't have experience that covers all aspects of the role, we know the right person can learn these things on the job.

Security Requirements

Ngā Whakaritenga Haumarutanga

Normally you must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a Resident class visa. Alternatively, you must have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia with a 10 year checkable background. To find out more check your eligibility for a TOP SECRET security clearance.

How to Apply

Me Pēhea te Tono Mai

A full job description is available below. If this role is of interest, please click "Apply now" and submit your tailored Cover Letter and CV. All applications must be made online.

In your cover letter we'd like to know

• about you, your values, your whakapapa
• explain your interests and motivations for this role
• describe your skills and personal attributes you will bring to the team and DPMC.

All applications must be made online. The closing date for this role is 5pm, Sunday 12 October 2025.

DPMC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applicants from all backgrounds are warmly encouraged to apply.

Applicants must have the ability to obtain and maintain the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Prior to DPMC confirming any offer of employment, pre-employment checks will be undertaken including criminal conviction history and reference checking as a minimum.