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
We are seeking an experienced and influential Chief Advisor, Contracts to provide strategic leadership across a significant portfolio of contracts within the Te Pou Ohumahi Mātauranga| Education Workforce Contracts Team.
As a trusted advisor, you will help lead the design, negotiation, implementation and ongoing management of strategically important contracts that support the growth, retention and development of New Zealand's Education Workforce. You will work closely with senior leaders, contract owners, suppliers and stakeholders to strengthen commercial outcomes, manage risk, and deliver value for money.
You will also play a key role in shaping the future of contract management capability by mentoring others, improving frameworks and processes, and embedding consistent, high-quality contract management practice across the team.
About you | Mōhou ake
We're looking for a highly credible and commercially astute leader with extensive experience managing complex contracts. You will be recognised for your ability to build trusted relationships, provide strategic advice, navigate ambiguity and influence outcomes at senior levels. You will bring a combination of commercial expertise, leadership capability, sound judgement and political awareness that enables you to deliver results in complex environments.
Key to success in this role is your:
Extensive experience managing or advising on complex, high-value and high-risk contracts
Strong knowledge of contract management, procurement, commercial risk and government processes
Proven track record in coaching, mentoring and building high-performance teams
Proven success in providing strategic and operational advice to senior leaders and decision makers
Exceptional stakeholder engagement, influencing and relationship management skills
Advanced negotiation skills and the ability to achieve positive outcomes in complex commercial settings
Experience leading continuous improvement, change initiatives or major programmes of work
Deep understanding of governance, compliance and contract management frameworks
Experience in strengthen the Māori-Crown relationship - building capability as a good kāwanatanga partner
Relevant tertiary qualification and either a contract management qualification or significant professional experience in contract management
Ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
Salary range: $141,146 - $171,196 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 our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
The Education Workforce group plays a critical role in supporting the education sector by delivering initiatives that help grow, retain and develop New Zealand's workforce. The Contracts Team provides strategic contract management expertise and leadership to ensure investment delivers the best outcomes for learners, educators and communities.
This recently formed team of Contract Managers have diverse backgrounds and levels of experience. We are now looking for someone who is passionate about delivering high performance and who has the capability to support the development of high performance in others. As Chief Advisor you will work alongside the Manager, Contracts to further develop the capability and support the team through this growth phase.
Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?
If this opportunity interests you, please submit your Resume and Cover Letter by using the ‘Apply Now' 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 Pip O’Connell at: pip.oconnell@education.govt.nz
Applications close 11.59pm on Wednesday, 11 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.
