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

• Do you thrive at the intersection of strategy, finance, commercial leadership and organisational transformation?
• Strategic leadership role reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
• Permanent, full-time hours, Wellington based

The Ministry of Education is seeking an experienced and influential advisor to join our Finance, Commercial and Property leadership team as Chief Advisor, Finance Commercial and Property. This is a unique opportunity to work directly with the Chief Financial Officer and their teams, providing strategic advice on some of the Ministry's most complex, high-profile and cross-cutting challenges. 

This is a trusted advisor role operating at the heart of the Ministry's corporate leadership function.

As Chief Advisor, you will work closely with the CFO and senior leaders to shape the strategic direction of the Finance, Commercial and Property group, support organisational decision-making, and help lead the Ministry through a period of significant change and transformation.

You will provide thought leadership on complex financial, commercial, property, governance and organisational issues, helping shape decisions with Ministry-wide impact. You will influence strategic outcomes across the organisation and represent the CFO in key internal and external forums when required.

This role offers a rare opportunity to combine strategic thinking, policy awareness, financial expertise and public sector leadership to drive meaningful outcomes for education across Aotearoa New Zealand.

 You will:

• Partner closely with the CFO and Finance, Commercial and Property leadership team
• Provide strategic leadership, advice and oversight across finance, commercial and property functions, supporting effective stewardship, performance, governance and risk management
• Lead and help resolve complex issues, balancing risk, opportunity and long-term outcomes
• Drive high-quality advice, reporting and briefings for senior leaders, governance groups and external stakeholders
• Support the Ministry's response to public sector reforms, sector developments and cross-government initiatives
• Build strong relationships across government agencies, including central agencies and sector partners
• Represent the Ministry and the CFO in key forums and stakeholder engagements
• Coach and build capability across the Finance, Commercial and Property function

Salary range: $170,501 - $255,751 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

We're looking for a strategic thinker and trusted advisor with the credibility to influence at senior levels.

You'll ideally bring:

• Extensive senior leadership experience across finance, commercial, property and related corporate functions, ideally within large, complex organisations
• A successful track record operating in large and complex organisations
• Strong strategic and systems thinking capability
• Experience leading significant organisational initiatives and change programmes
• Exceptional relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strong political acumen and the ability to navigate complex government and stakeholder environments
• The ability to navigate ambiguity and bring clarity to complex issues
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• A passion for developing people and building organisational capability
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

This is an opportunity to help shape the future direction of a newly established Finance, Commercial and Property function at a pivotal time for the Ministry.

You'll work alongside talented and committed colleagues, contribute to decisions that matter nationally, and play a key role in strengthening financial stewardship, commercial performance and strategic decision-making across the organisation.

If you're looking for a role where you can influence at the highest levels, tackle complex challenges and make a lasting impact on education outcomes in New Zealand, we'd love to hear from you.

 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.

If you require further information, please contact Fiona Ramson, Senior Recruitment Advisor at: fiona.ramson@education.govt.nz

 Applications close at 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 October 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.