Senior Policy Adviser [PN0335]

Ministry for Culture & Heritage; Wellington; On-site; NZD 113,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Ministry for Culture & Heritage in Wellington is seeking a Senior Policy Adviser to shape policy on New Zealand’s media and screen sectors. You will lead complex analyses, provide strategic advice to Ministers and drive system-wide policy projects in a fast-paced, collaborative team.

The role offers a permanent, full-time position with a salary range of NZD 112,646 to NZD 130,434 and requires strong stakeholder engagement and Te Tiriti understanding.

Qualifications

• We are looking for an enthusiastic team player who can hit the ground running, think strategically, work through ambiguity and manage relationships.
• Demonstrate a track record of leading complex pieces of analysis and providing strategic policy advice.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality advice to Ministers on complex, cross-cutting issues.
• Lead and contribute to high-impact policy projects that drive system change across media and screen sectors.
• Collaborate with other government agencies and stakeholders to influence outcomes.

Job description

Vacancy V29

Pou Tohu Matua Kaupapa Here | Senior Policy Adviser

Te Aka | Policy, Performance & Insights [PN0355]

Permanent / Fulltime

Wellington

Salary Range $112,646 - $130,434

Ki te puāwai te ahurea, Ka ora te iwi
If culture is thriving, the people will be well

Do you want to support a broad policy work programme that will help shape the future of New Zealand’s media and screen sectors?

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Senior Policy Adviser to join our Media & Screen policy team.

Kōrero mō te tūranga | About the role

In this role, you’ll work on complex, high-impact policy challenges, identifying emerging opportunities and issues across New Zealand’s media and screen sectors. You’ll play a key role in shaping system-wide thinking and providing strategic advice to Ministers on these challenges and levers available to influence positive outcomes for the sectors and New Zealanders.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Provide high-quality advice to Ministers on complex, cross-cutting issues


• Lead and contribute to high-impact policy projects that drive system change


• Work across a range of policy levers – including regulatory and system-level – to deliver outcomes


• Collaborate with other government agencies and stakeholders


• Support and mentor others as part of a high-performing team

Kōrero mōu | About you

We are looking for an enthusiastic team player who can hit the ground running, think strategically, work through ambiguity and manage relationships. In return we offer an inclusive Ministry, working at pace on varied topics that provides ample opportunities for learning and growth.

You will need to demonstrate:

• A track record of leading complex pieces of analysis, applying appropriate frameworks


• Excellent analytical and communication skills, with attention to detail and ability to work at pace while maintaining quality


• Proven ability to deliver succinct, accurate and well-reasoned policy products that anticipate and meet the needs of Ministers


• Sound judgement, political acumen and adaptability


• Effective stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills, with experience influencing and shaping thinking at senior levels


• Experience coaching, mentoring and supporting team members


• Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and how to consider its application in your work.

Please download a copy of the full Position Description by clicking here

Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the competencies listed in the position description

Applications close Thursday 22 October 2026.

For enquiries about this position contact Mata Moke - [e-mail]

Āheinga | Eligibility
If you are not a New Zealand citizen, you must hold current eligibility to work in New Zealand and for Manatū Taonga. Please refer to theNew Zealand Immigration Service for further information.

To learn more about Manatū Taonga | Ministry for Culture & Heritage please explore our Corporate Website (mch.govt.nz)