Director, Business Management
Wellington, NZ
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 permanent full-time position based in Wellington.
Under our newly formed business group, Te Pou Kōrero | Digital and Data, the Ministry has established a new position of Director, Business Management, responsible for strategic leadership and oversight to enable functions that drive the performance, integration and future-focused vision of the Group.
This senior leadership role plays a critical part in shaping and governing frameworks, systems and capabilities. Responsibilities are broad, and extend across safeguarding enterprise – level risk, financial management, data management and analytics, business continuity and commercial management.
The role is influential across the Ministry and sector, with the need for strategic and operational alignment of demand and portfolio management. There is a key focus on the coordination of Ministerial servicing, business planning, performance reporting, compliance and administrative services, that includes internal governance.
The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary based on their individual skills and experience.
For more details about the role, you can view the job description Director Business Management
About you | Mōhou ake
To be successful in this position, you will be a strategic leader who sets a clear vision that supports enterprise-wide capability. Your proven skills in enterprise planning and previous performance will support all aspects of integrated delivery across the portfolio. You’ll demonstrate competence in cohesion between strategic alignment and systems performance.
In establishing and maintaining robust governance and compliance frameworks, you’ll meet legislative policy and ministerial standards. Your stakeholder relationship skills will be valued and of key importance as you provide high levels of Ministerial and Executive servicing.
As a leader, you will grow the capability development that enables senior leaders and teams to deliver on strategic priorities.
Your background experience includes navigating complex public sector environments, with a solid understanding of the machinery of government, Cabinet and ministerial processes, and the unique responsibilities that come with public accountability.
You will contribute:
- Demonstrated experience in shaping and governing frameworks
- Proven ability to set a clear vision that supports enterprise-wide capability
- Sound judgement and the ability to make complex decisions fairly and confidently, that are defensible
- Strong understanding of enabling services, including risk management, financial management and business
- Proficiency in data management and analytics
- Excellent stakeholder and relationship management skills, providing a high-level trusted service to Ministers and the Executive
- Experience driving organisational change and a leadership approach that embeds a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
Te Pou Kōrero | Digital and Data sets the digital and data direction that enables modern, efficient and seamless experiences for all those interacting with education services.
We lead the development and implementation of digital and data strategies, provide oversight of products and services, and work closely with partners across the education sector. We have a strong focus on innovation, exploring new technologies, and enabling evidence-based decision making.
Te Pou Kōrero | Digital and Data group provides services that focus on:
• Sector Digital Delivery
• Ministry Digital Operating Model
• Digital and Data-enabled strategic planning
• Data and Evidence
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 Jenn Dawson, Chief Advisor, People Sustainability and Place, on email jenn.dawson@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight Tuesday 17 March 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.
