Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
Senior Advisor, Strategic Crisis Management
Wellington-based | Permanent, Full-time role
About The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet | Te Tari o te Pirimia me te Rūnanga Kāwanatanga
The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) supports the government of the day by leading, advising, stewarding, and delivering activities across the public sector, and by providing dedicated advice and support to the Governor-General, Prime Minister, and portfolio Ministers.
About the Role
As a Senior Advisor in DPMC's Strategic Crisis Management Directorate (SCMD), you’ll play a pivotal role in strengthening New Zealand’s ability to prepare for, manage, and respond to significant crisis events.
The Strategic Crisis Management Directorate (SCMD) leads, coordinates, and supports the all-of-government Officials' Committee for Domestic and External Security Coordination (ODESC) system of strategic crisis management. This system is designed to support central government in identifying and addressing emerging risks and responding effectively to crisis events.
Key functions of the role include:
- Providing thought leadership and critical analysis during ODESC system activations, ensuring agencies are coordinated to deliver a collective response to crisis events.
- Participating in the SCMD rotating 24/7 duty roster, offering timely, well-reasoned advice and coordination support as required.
- Designing and delivering National Exercise Programme exercises to strengthen preparedness for strategic crisis events, while working with agencies to enhance their readiness.
- Driving cross-government initiatives by building, maintaining, and leveraging strong relationships with government agencies, local government, the academic community, and international partners.
- Delivering high-quality, analytical advice through clear, concise reports, briefings, and responses for senior officials, chief executives, and Ministers. This includes handling correspondence, OIA requests, and Parliamentary Questions.
About You - Mōu Anō We are looking for a candidate who brings a combination of deep thinking, critical analysis, and strategic insight. To succeed in this role, you will demonstrate:
- A proven ability to think critically and strategically, identifying emerging risks and developing clear, well-informed advice to support decision-making.
- Comfortable with the need to quickly understand and work across a diverse range of topics.
- Experience in a strategic advisory, policy, or operational role within the New Zealand public sector.
- An understanding of national security, hazard risk, strategic crisis management, emergency management, or related areas.
- Strong analytical capabilities, with the ability to synthesise complex information and provide actionable insights.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to express ideas clearly and deliver compelling messages tailored to diverse audiences.
- A demonstrated understanding of, and commitment to, the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
- Familiarity with the protocols and processes required when working with highly classified information.
- Strong relationship-building skills and, ideally, an established network across government agencies within the ODESC system.
- Knowledge of the machinery of government and experience supporting governance boards, including preparing papers, taking minutes, and working with multiple stakeholders.
At DPMC, we value diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. A workforce that reflects the communities we serve helps us deliver better outcomes for both government and the people of New Zealand.
Security Requirements | Ngā Whakaritenga Haumarutanga
To be eligible for this role, you must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a Resident class visa. Alternatively, you must have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia with a 15-year checkable background.
To find out more, check your eligibility for a TOP SECRET SPECIAL security clearance here - Eligibility self-check tool | Protective Security Requirements.
Why Join Us? | Nā te aha i Tūhono Mai Ai Ki a Mātou? Working at DPMC means being at the heart of some of the most significant and impactful work in Aotearoa New Zealand. This role offers a unique opportunity to apply your critical thinking and analytical skills to help safeguard the security and well-being of New Zealanders. You’ll work alongside smart, motivated colleagues in an environment that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
How to Apply - Me pēhea te tono: A full job description is available by clicking the 'apply now' button. If this role is of interest, please click 'Apply now' and submit your tailored Cover Letter and CV.
All applications must be made online. The closing date for this role is 8pm, 29 October 2026. For any questions, please contact our people and culture team at peopleandculture@dpmc.govt.nz.
