Lead Advisor, Operational Policy

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Help shape the future of education in New Zealand

Help shape the future of Education We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system. About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga - Permanent, full-time opportunity

• Wellington-based

As the Lead Advisor, Operational Policy you will provide advice on implementing qualifications policy and settings, from design through to implementation. This role works directly with the Qualifications team members, the wider Curriculum, Learning and Qualifications group, wider Ministry staff, and external stakeholders to enable effective delivery. You will lead the development of operational policy that supports a coherent, curriculum-led, nationally, and internationally credible national secondary school qualifications system, provide advice on shaping the senior secondary education system so that it delivers quality and equitable pathways for all learners, allowing them to transition successfully to employment, training, or tertiary study. Salary range: $101,296 - 122,490 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience. For more details about the role, you can view the Job description here About you | Mōhou ake To be successful in the role you will have: - Experience in policy or operational policy development in a complex setting.

• Ability to engage with a range of stakeholders confidently and appropriately from different cultures and backgrounds.
• Ability to design and deliver internal and external stakeholder engagements, both general and targeted, to generate valuable and usable insights/advice.
• Understanding of secondary qualifications and assessment, including NCEA, and the diversity of learners working towards qualifications in schools and kura, including the needs of Māori, Pacific, and disabled learners.
• Experience in engaging in different contexts and cultural settings.
• Experience leading or supporting one or more projects concurrently and managing competing priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective working relationships.
• Relevant tertiary qualification or substantial relevant experience
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake The purpose of Te Poutāhū is to lead the national curricula for Aotearoa New Zealand and associated systems and processes of assessment and aromatawai. We design, develop, and provide curriculum services for teachers, kaiako, leaders, ākonga, their whānau and communities that reflect their identities, languages, and cultures. We bring together curriculum, teaching expertise and evidence for the development, support and review of inclusive curricula, assessment, and qualifications. Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi? If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role. For further information, please contact Henry Collette, General Manager, Qualifications and Pathways at henry.collette@education.govt.nz Applications close Midnight – Sunday, 22 November 2026 We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.