Senior Policy Advisors – Multiple Fixed-Term & Permanent Roles

Robert Walters New Zealand; Wellington; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking Senior Policy Advisors in Wellington to develop high-quality advice for government decision-making. Ideal candidates will have proven experience in policy development, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication abilities. This role offers the chance to work on impactful projects that benefit all New Zealanders and comes with a flexible contract type including permanent options.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in policy development within government or related sectors.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to navigate complex issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Leading the development of policy frameworks, strategies, and recommendations.
• Providing expert advice on legislative, legal, and operational policy matters.
• Engaging with stakeholders across government agencies.

Skills

Policy development

Analytical skills

Legislative drafting

Communication skills

Collaboration

Education

Tertiary qualification in law, public policy, social sciences

Job description

Save job

We’re seeking Senior Policy Advisors to work on impactful projects across government organisations. Whether your expertise is in international policy, social policy, justice policy, or you have a keen eye for economic analysis, we likely have a role for you! Choose from project based fixed-term opportunities to work at pace or permanent roles offering career growth. Take the next step in shaping your career!

About the Roles

As a Senior Policy Advisor, you will play a key role in developing and delivering high-quality advice to support decision-making at the highest levels of government. This work could be economic & legislative, or see you work closely with Ministers to create clear recommendations for future proofing.

Your work could involve:

• Navigating complex legislation.
• Collaborating with the Minister’s office.
• Leading key deliverables that could change lives.
• Monitoring Crown entities.
• Drafting Cabinet papers at pace.

Whether it’s a fixed-term or permanent opportunity, you will tackle complex issues requiring innovative thinking, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the machinery of government.

Your Responsibilities May Include:

• Leading the development of policy frameworks, strategies, and recommendations.
• Providing expert advice on legislative, legal, operational, or strategic policy matters.
• Engaging with stakeholders across government agencies, iwi, and community organisations.
• Drafting briefings, Cabinet papers, and other high-level documents.
• Implementing machinery of government knowledge.
• Being an expert on the work you lead and supporting the mentoring of junior staff.
• Contributing to cross-agency initiatives and ensuring alignment with broader government priorities.

About You

We’re looking for professionals who bring:

• Proven experience in policy development within government or related sectors.
• Expertise in one or more areas: legal analysis, legislative drafting, operational policy design, or strategic policy planning.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to navigate complex issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A collaborative approach to working with diverse stakeholders.
• A commitment to delivering outcomes that benefit all New Zealanders.

A tertiary qualification in law, public policy, social sciences, or a related field is preferred but not essential if you have equivalent experience. Some legislative positions will require a legal background or degree.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career as a Senior Policy Advisor, we’d love to hear from you! Submit your CV outlining your experience and areas of interest!

Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence within this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Peita Ransom on [phone]

Job Details

• Contract Type: Perm
• Specialism: Policy
• Focus: Policy
• Industry: Public Sector and Government
• Workplace Type: On-site
• Experience Level: Associate
• Location: Wellington Central
• Salary: Negotiable