Lead Advisor, 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

Permanent opportunity based in National Office, Wellington

Are you a strategic communicator with a passion for education and equity? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where your work directly supports positive outcomes for learners across Aotearoa?

Te Poutāhū (Curriculum Centre) is looking for a dynamic Lead Advisor, Engaement to lead and deliver best-practice communications and stakeholder engagement across a range of high-impact initiatives.

In this pivotal role you will:

• Lead the development and delivery of engagement strategies to support curriculum transformation.
• Coordinate key engagement activities, channels and feedback
• Build and maintain strong relationships with diverse communities, peak bodies, and sector leaders.
• Support effective change management through the development of clear, consistent, and culturally responsive communications, including newsletters, presentations, and stakeholder information packs.
• Provide expert advice on media, messaging, and risk management to ensure alignment with organisational priorities.
• Collaborate across the Ministry to ensure integration, consistency, and a shared narrative in all communications

Salary range: $99,496 - $120,690 per annum + 3% 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

In Te Poutāhū, you’ll be part of a passionate team working to shape the future of education in Aotearoa. You’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference, supporting initiatives that empower educators, uplift learners, and reflect the rich diversity of our communities.

You will be a self-starter with proven experience in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and media management.

You will also offer:

• A deep understanding of Aotearoa’s diverse communities and the ability to engage in culturally responsive ways.
• Strong writing, planning, and advisory skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.
• Experience supporting change initiatives and delivering communications that drive understanding and action.
• A collaborative mindset and a commitment to 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

The purpose of Te Poutāhū is to lead the national curricula for Aotearoa New Zealand and associated systems and processes of assessment and aromatawai.

We design, develop and provide curriculum services for teachers, kaiako, leaders, ākonga, students their whānau and communities that reflect their identities, languages and cultures.

We bring together curriculum, teaching expertise and evidence for the development, support and review of inclusive curricula, assessment and NCEA. Our strengths are across te reo Māori, mātauranga Māori, disability, inclusive learning support and culturally relevant content so that Te Mahau supports learning that is inclusive for all ākonga, students.

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 Ronnie Harvey, Senior Advisor at Veronica.Harvey@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Friday, 22 August 2025.

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.