Senior Policy Analyst | Permanent

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 156,000; Full time

Job summary

Social Investment Agency in New Zealand seeks a Senior Policy Analyst to deliver high-quality policy advice, lead complex policy analysis, and manage policy projects across government. You'll work with policy, data, commissioning and delivery teams to inform decisions and strengthen capability.

You will apply Te Tiriti o Waitangi perspectives, collaborate across teams, and influence Ministers and senior leaders with clear, evidence-based advice.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience providing policy advice at a senior level in central government.
• Ability to define complex policy problems, identify objectives, test assumptions, and use data and diverse perspectives.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence Ministers and senior leaders.
• Collaborative, adaptable, politically aware with understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Responsibilities

• Deliver timely, high-quality policy advice that is data-driven and aligned with priorities.
• Lead complex policy analysis and develop clear recommendations for decision-making.
• Collaborate across teams to generate insights using research, data, and analytics.
• Build relationships across government and policy community and manage risks.

Skills

Policy analysis

Data analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Written communication

Verbal communication

Job description

It's an exciting time to join the Social Investment Agency as we lead change across the public service to implement social investment and support Government to achieve better outcomes from social sector spending.Ko wai matou | About usThe Social Investment Agency is helping reshape how government uses data, evidence and investment to improve outcomes for New Zealanders. We work across agency boundaries on complex social policy challenges, helping the system invest earlier, more effectively and where it can make the greatest difference. For an experienced policy professional, this is an opportunity to influence decisions at the centre of government, work alongside experts in policy, data, commissioning and delivery, and see your advice contribute to meaningful system change.Our people are curious, agile and committed to public service. We foster a safe, inclusive and collaborative workplace where people are trusted to contribute, challenge thinking and develop their craft. We are flexible by default, and value the diversity everyone brings and welcome applications from everyone, regardless of gender identity, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability or religion. If you have any support or access requirements, please tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.Korero mo te turanga | About the roleAs a Senior Policy Analyst, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality, evidence-based policy advice to support the Social Investment work programme. Working across the System Coordination and Design team and alongside operational and enabling functions, you'll lead complex analysis, manage policy projects, and contribute to strengthening team capability.Key responsibilities:Deliver timely, high-quality policy advice that is data-driven, practical, and aligned with strategic prioritiesLead complex policy analysis and develop clear recommendations to inform decision-makingContribute to strategic thinking on social sector issues and the Social Investment FundCollaborate across teams to generate insights using research, data, and analyticsProvide thought leadership, challenge assumptions, and drive innovative policy solutionsApply best practice policy frameworks and ensure quality through peer review processesWork alongside operational and commissioning experts to ensure operational design reflects policy objectivesIncorporate diverse perspectives, including a Te Tiriti o Waitangi lensBuild and maintain strong relationships across government and the policy communityIdentify and manage risks, ensuring accuracy and integrity of analysis and adviceSupport team capability through knowledge sharing, mentoring, and feedbackHe korero mou | About youTo be successful in this role, you will clearly demonstrate:Substantial experience providing policy advice at a senior level in central government, supported by a strong understanding of policy development, machinery of government and policy quality processesWhile not essential, experience with government Budget processes, Vote management or legislative processes would be highly regardedStrong analytical capability, including the ability to define complex policy problems, identify research objectives, test assumptions, and use data, evidence and diverse perspectives to develop balanced, pragmatic options and recommendationsA proven ability to lead or make a substantial contribution to complex, high-volume policy work and produce accurate, actionable and evidence-based advice at paceExcellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate technical analysis into clear advice and influence Ministers, senior leaders and stakeholders across the public sectorA collaborative, adaptable and politically aware approach, with the judgement to build strong relationships, incorporate Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Maori perspectives, contribute to quality assurance, and share expertise with colleaguesUtu a-tau | SalaryBand 17 $110,497 - $129,996 - $155,995 (usually offers are made between $110,497 and $129,996)Tono mai | How to ApplyTo apply for this role please click the `Apply Now' button and follow the online process. To view a copy of the position description please click here: Senior Policy Analyst, position descriptionApplications close at 11.59pm on Saturday 31 October 2026; however, we are looking to move quickly with these roles and will be shortlisting applications as they are received and may begin interviewing prior to the advert closing date.We also reserve the right to close the vacancy early if ideal candidates are found before the close date. If you have any questions, please email [e-mail]. We look forward to receiving your application.