Senior Operational Policy Advisor — Drive Practical Policy

Niche Recruitment; Wellington; On-site; NZD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

Niche Recruitment in Wellington is seeking a Senior Policy Advisor to translate strategic intent into practical, workable operational policy solutions. You will lead policy advice across multidisciplinary teams and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver evidence-based outcomes for New Zealand communities.

You'll analyse issues, assess risks, and prepare briefings and ministerial responses, guiding implementation of policy initiatives while ensuring alignment with organisational priorities.

Qualifications

• Relevant experience in policy development, analysis, and advice.
• Experience working on operational, regulatory, service delivery, or implementation-focused policy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to influence and engage a wide range of stakeholders.
• Experience preparing high-quality briefings and decision papers.
• Sound judgement and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• A collaborative and pragmatic approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of operational policy advice, frameworks, and guidance.
• Analyse complex issues and provide evidence-based recommendations.
• Translate legislation, regulation, and strategic direction into practical policy solutions.
• Support the implementation of policy initiatives and operational change.
• Prepare briefings, Cabinet papers, discussion documents, and ministerial responses.
• Build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Identify risks, impacts, and implementation challenges and develop mitigation strategies.

Skills

Policy development

Policy analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Written communication

Verbal communication

Briefings & decision papers

Job description

Niche Recruitment in Wellington is seeking a Senior Policy Advisor to translate strategic intent into practical, workable operational policy solutions. You will lead policy advice across multidisciplinary teams and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver evidence-based outcomes for New Zealand communities.

You'll analyse issues, assess risks, and prepare briefings and ministerial responses, guiding implementation of policy initiatives while ensuring alignment with organisational priorities.