Lead Advisor, Pacific Engagement

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

This is a full-time permanent role based in Whanganui.

The Lead Adviser Pacific Engagement provides regional leadership and brings Pacific expertise to support the achievement of equitable outcomes for Pacific learners and their families.

In this role, you will work closely with Pacific communities, education providers, and internal teams to strengthen engagement, build trusted relationships, and support locally responsive solutions. You will gather and analyse data, develop Pacific learner profiles, and use insights to inform planning, decision-making, and service delivery.

You will also play a key role in connecting communities with the Ministry, ensuring Pacific voices, aspirations, and needs are understood and reflected in education system initiatives, including the Action Plan for Pacific Education.

Salary range: $100,296 - $121,490 + 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 Lead Advisor Pacific Engagement

About you | Mōhou ake

We’re looking for a confident relationship builder with strong cultural capability and a passion for improving outcomes for Pacific learners. You will bring experience working alongside Pacific communities and the ability to influence and lead across complex environments.

You will also offer:

• Competency in at least one Pacific language
• Proven experience building and maintaining trusted relationships with Pacific communities, stakeholders and partners
• Strong understanding of Pacific cultures, with competency in at least one Pacific language
• Ability to use data and insights to inform decisions and influence outcomes
• Experience leading or contributing to strategic initiatives or programmes
• Sound understanding of government systems and stakeholder environments.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

You will be a collaborative, solutions-focused professional who can navigate complexity, build capability in others, and communicate effectively across diverse groups. You’ll be joining a supportive, high-performing team that values collaboration, innovation, and making a real difference in the lives of learners, families and communities.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Mahau works directly with the education sector to ensure services and support are responsive to local needs. Our teams are regionally based and focus on strengthening relationships with communities, supporting equitable outcomes, and enabling the delivery of education services that work for all learners.

Within this, Pacific Engagement plays a critical role in ensuring Pacific perspectives, identities, languages and cultures are recognised and reflected across the education system.

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 Nancy Macfarlane, Manager Practice and Performance at Nancy.Macfarlane@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight Friday 26 June 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.