HR Advisor, Change

Strengthening Education

The Ministry of Education plays a critical role in shaping New Zealand’s education system to deliver equitable and excellent outcomes for all learners.

Achieving excellence is about supporting every student to experience success at every stage of their learning journey from early learning and schooling, right through to tertiary, training and employment. A focus on equity is critical in the New Zealand context – it means recognising and responding to the diverse circumstances and needs of all our learners. 

We are now reshaping the way the Ministry is organised so that we are better positioned to deliver on the goals of equity and excellence. This means being focused on our core role and doing it well; being deliberately outward-facing and forward-looking; utilising evidence and data to make informed decisions; and supporting a strong organisational culture.

As the stewards of our education system, the Ministry is looking for experienced and outstanding Advisors for change who are driven, curious, open to different perspectives and adaptable to support our leaders and people through system and organisational change. 

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

Are you passionate about shaping the future of work and guiding people through meaningful transformation? In this role, you’ll work closely with our HR Change Leads to champion organisational design and change. You’ll support the program to deliver high-impact change initiatives across the organisation. This is your opportunity to support change that matters.

We have a fixed term/secondment position available through to December 2026, come be part of something transformative.

Salary range: $74,815 - $90,347 per annum + 3% 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


What you will be doing:

• Support the engagement with Deputy Secretaries and senior leaders to develop and implement transformative organisational design and change management processes.
• Provide change advice, services and support to ensure organisational change that delivers outcomes aligned with our strategy and vision.
• Working collaboratively with the wider People and Employee Services teams.

What we are looking for:

• Experience in HR Advisory or Employment Relations.
• A good understanding of employment legislation and HR practices.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset.
• A team player who’s keen to learn and grow.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The Corporate group is responsible for a range of support functions that enable other Ministry areas to focus on the delivery of excellent and equitable outcomes for users of the education system. The functions within the group are focused on providing responsive services and solutions that enhance Ministry staff experience, while maintaining and growing public trust and confidence in the Ministry to deliver.

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 Anita.Lestrange@education.govt.nz.

Applications close Midnight – Monday 26 January 2026.

Please note we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We will be looking to hold Interviews shortly after the advertising has closed.

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.