Strategic Policy Lead: Learning & Governance

New Zealand Defence Force; Wellington; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully funded life cover up to $300,000

Critical illness protection

Discounted insurances

Will services

Job summary

New Zealand Defence Force in Wellington is seeking a Manager Strategy & Policy to lead the development and governance of the learning strategy, policies and frameworks.

You will work with the Commander NZDF College, provide expert policy advice, and drive improvements across Defence learning, influencing senior leaders and external partners.

The role emphasizes strong writing, research, stakeholder engagement, and strategic thinking to shape the organisation's learning direction.

Qualifications

• Experience leading the development and implementation of policy within government, Defence or large organisations.
• Strong research, analysis and writing skills with the ability to turn complex information into clear, practical policy and guidance.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with the confidence to engage and influence stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, managing priorities and risks to achieve outcomes.
• Strong digital literacy and a proactive approach to building professional networks and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of the NZDF learning strategy, policy, governance and frameworks.
• Research emerging trends and benchmark NZDF learning practices against Defence, government and industry best practice.
• Drive continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance NZDF learning systems.
• Develop, review and maintain key Defence learning policies, orders, manuals and guidance documents.
• Lead a small, high performing team.
• Provide expert policy advice to senior leaders, learning providers and stakeholders across the NZDF.
• Build strong relationships across Defence and external organisations to champion strategic learning initiatives and support organisational change.

Skills

Policy development

Research & writing

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic thinking

Digital literacy

Job description

New Zealand Defence Force in Wellington is seeking a Manager Strategy & Policy to lead the development and governance of the learning strategy, policies and frameworks.

You will work with the Commander NZDF College, provide expert policy advice, and drive improvements across Defence learning, influencing senior leaders and external partners.

The role emphasizes strong writing, research, stakeholder engagement, and strategic thinking to shape the organisation's learning direction.