Lead Advisor, Foundational Progress and Achievement

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 ākonga in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

• Permanent, full-time opportunity
• Wellington-based | Te Poutāhū (Curriculum Centre)

Are you ready to lead work that shapes the future of learning in Aotearoa? We’re looking for an exceptional Lead Advisor to join our Foundational Progress and Achievement team in Te Poutāhū. These roles are pivotal in driving Government priorities and ensuring operational excellence across curriculum integration services.

As a Lead Advisor you will provide strong leadership and ensure smooth operational workflows for Te Poutāhū service e delivery. You’ll be at the heart of designing and operationalising key initiatives that make a real difference for schools and learners.

 Your work will include:

• Leading new initiatives: Design engagement models, operations, and impact measures (e.g., Year 7 & 8 Maths and Pāngarau Acceleration Programme).
• Procurement leadership: Act as SME to shape market approaches and RFP processes.
• Providing strategic advice: Prepare clear, high-quality memos and recommendations for senior leaders.
• Sector support: Be the trusted expert for schools and stakeholders on key initiatives.
• Developing content: Draft and review updates for Tāhūrangi and School Leaders Bulletin.

Salary range: $100,296 - $121,490 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

We’re looking for experienced professionals with a strong track record in programme leadership, procurement, and contract management. You’ll bring analytical and strategic thinking skills to complex challenges and have the ability to build strong relationships and influence across diverse stakeholder networks. Clear and confident communication – both written and verbal – is essential, along with a genuine passion for improving educational outcomes for all learners.

You will also offer:

• The ability to make connections across work programmes in the Ministry and other sector agencies to align work for maximum impact.
• Influence others to bring alignment to work programmes.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

This is a unique opportunity to be a part of transformation and change in Aotearoa’s education system

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, 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.

We support the people who are closest to, and directly serve, ākonga and whānau. We do this through Te Mahau where we connect with the sector, working collaboratively to identify priorities and design local solutions.

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 – Sunday, 7 December 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.