Senior Policy Analyst

Madison Recruitment; Wellington; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Madison Recruitment is seeking a Senior Policy Analyst to lead complex policy work and provide strategic advice that shapes outcomes for New Zealanders. You will manage evidence-based options, engage with diverse stakeholders, and guide decision-makers through Cabinet-ready briefings.

You’ll mentor junior staff, drive initiatives from inception to implementation, and contribute to a positive, collaborative team culture focused on curiosity, learning, and impact.

Qualifications

• Experience in policy development, analysis, or advisory environment.
• Ability to lead complex policy work and deliver results in fast-paced settings.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to navigate ambiguity.

Responsibilities

• Leading complex policy projects and work programmes from planning through to delivery
• Providing high-quality policy advice to senior leaders and decision-makers on strategic and emerging issues
• Undertaking analysis and research to identify policy options, assess implications, and recommend solutions
• Preparing high-quality briefings, reports, Cabinet papers, and other written advice
• Building strong relationships and collaborating across teams to ensure policy advice is well-informed, practical, and deliverable
• Engaging with stakeholders to gather insights, test ideas, and support effective policy development
• Identifying risks, opportunities, and implementation considerations to support successful outcomes
• Supporting and mentoring less experienced team members while contributing to a positive team culture

Skills

Policy development

Policy analysis

Strategic advice

Stakeholder engagement

Collaboration

Critical thinking

Planning & organisation

Understanding government processes

Te Tiriti o Waitangi knowledge

Job description

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced policy professional to contribute to work that makes a meaningful difference for New Zealanders. As a Senior Policy Analyst, you will lead complex policy projects, provide high-quality strategic advice, and work alongside a diverse range of stakeholders to shape policy outcomes and support effective decision-making.

You will play a key role in driving work programmes from inception through to implementation, bringing together evidence, insights and perspectives to develop practical and impactful policy solutions.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading complex policy projects and work programmes from planning through to delivery
• Providing high-quality policy advice to senior leaders and decision-makers on strategic and emerging issues
• Undertaking analysis and research to identify policy options, assess implications, and recommend solutions
• Preparing high-quality briefings, reports, Cabinet papers, and other written advice
• Building strong relationships and collaborating across teams to ensure policy advice is well-informed, practical, and deliverable
• Engaging with stakeholders to gather insights, test ideas, and support effective policy development
• Identifying risks, opportunities, and implementation considerations to support successful outcomes
• Supporting and mentoring less experienced team members while contributing to a positive team culture

What You’ll Bring

• Significant experience in policy development, analysis, or a related advisory environment
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex pieces of work and deliver results in a fast-paced environment
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to navigate ambiguity and solve complex problems
• Excellent written communication skills and experience preparing advice for senior leaders
• Proven stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills
• The ability to influence outcomes through collaboration rather than authority
• Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities
• An understanding of government decision-making processes and the wider public sector environment
• Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application within the policy context

Why You’ll Love This Role

• Lead work that has a genuine impact on communities and outcomes across New Zealand
• Influence policy direction and contribute to significant strategic initiatives
• Work alongside talented and highly collaborative colleagues
• Enjoy a supportive team culture that values curiosity, innovation, and continuous learning
• Access ongoing professional development and career growth opportunities

If you're an experienced policy professional who enjoys leading complex work, working collaboratively across organisations, and delivering high-quality advice that drives meaningful outcomes, we'd love to hear from you.

For confidential enquiries, please contact Georgia Dry at Madison Recruitment.