ER Lead

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

Are you passionate about shaping positive workplace culture and driving strategic change? We're looking for a seasoned Employment Relations Lead to bring their expertise and fresh thinking to our dynamic team.

As an ER Lead, you'll be the go-to expert for employment relations, offering high-level guidance, coaching, and support to our Advisory and Employee Services teams. You'll play a key part in evaluating and enhancing our employment relations frameworks, while championing innovative solutions and outcomes.

This is a fixed term opportunity until December 2026 to provide cover while the incumbent is on a secondment. 

Salary range: $140,146 - $170,196 per annum + kiwi saver. 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

What you’ll be doing:

• Providing expert advice and act as a trusted sounding board for HR Advisors managing ER cases within their skill level.
• Leading projects to support implementation of new systems, processes and legislation.
• Handling union relationships including the coordination of meetings, agendas and actions for union meetings.
• Contributing to the development, growth and progression of the Employee Services team.
• Bringing together ER, MyHR and Advisory reporting to give a clear view of support across Business Groups for the advisory team.

What we are looking for:

• Experience in a complex organisation with a proven record of managing complex ER issues.
• Experience in building relationships and partnerships to achieve shared outcomes.
• Proven experience working across a wider HR team within a large organisation to deliver positive employment relations outcomes.
• A relevant ER/IR qualification and/or HR qualification and/or experience
• Experience providing ER advice to Advisory teams and senior leaders.
• A breadth of ER and ER/IR knowledge and experience
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The People Sustainability and Property group supports the organisation to look after our greatest strength - he tāngata | our people. Putting our people first is at the heart of our Ministry People Strategy - He Huarahi Pai | A good path for our people.  Our key strategic outcomes include:

• building Education’s ability to attract, recruit and retain great people
• supporting a highly motivated, engaged, collaborative and diverse workforce
• developing our people’s skills and capability to contribute to strong organisational performance delivering excellent advice and service.

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 Geri Smith, Manager Employee Services at Geri.Smith@education.govt.nz

Applications close midnight – Friday 27 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.