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
Come join a thriving strategy and operational policy team, focused on attracting, training and retaining the best talent in the education workforce – teachers, school leaders, specialists and more.
As Chief Advisor you’ll lead strategic thinking and provide expert advice on the supply, growth, and leadership of the education sector workforce. Your work will shape workforce strategies and expenditure, helping to ensure every child has access to great teachers, specialists and leaders.
You’ll draw on your strengths in policy and strategy to deliver advice grounded in evidence and data. This role is about seeing the big picture—identifying trends, tackling complex workforce issues, and helping guide smart, future-focused decisions.
If you're driven by impact, thrive on complexity, and want to help lead change that matters—this is your opportunity.
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 you | Mōhou ake
You are a credible and influential leader who thrives on solving complex problems and shaping outcomes. You bring experience providing strategic advice in a large and dynamic environment, with the ability to navigate ambiguity, build trusted relationships, and influence within and across organisational boundaries. To be successful in this role, you will have the following capabilities and competencies:
Expertise in leading public policy, and the provision of advice to governments on complex issues
Experience in developing frameworks and using data and evidence to determine the best response to issues
Able to work across policy and delivery teams
Bring a solution-focused mindset
Be influential towards achieving outcomes
Be highly motivated to deliver and contribute.
Demonstrate the ability to respond and take ownership for work, be self-managing
Have a calm approach and be clear headed in your thinking
Be able to adapt to changing circumstances and respond to pressure
You will have:
A tertiary degree in policy, economics or similar
Well-developed presentation and writing skills
Experience working at a senior policy level in the public service
An understanding of the machinery of government, including a working knowledge of public financial management
Sound political awareness
The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
You'll join a supportive and collaborative leadership team that values innovation, continuous improvement and shared success.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
Our Group (Te Pou Ohumahi Mātauranga) develops and implements strategies for the education workforce and its leaders, focusing on specialist services, employment relations, pay equity, and more, so that we have the education workforce with the right supports, in the right places at the right time.
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 Jolanda Meijer, General Manager Education Workforce Supply and Leadership, at jolanda.meijer@education.govt.nz.
Applications close 11.59pm on Sunday, 15 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.
