Lead 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 Lead 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 the People & Culture Workstream Lead to champion organisational design and change. You’ll provide expert advice and thought leadership to support high-impact change initiatives across the organisation. This is your opportunity to lead change that matters.

We have three positions available, come be part of something transformative.

For more details about the role, you can view the job description here. 

About you | Mōhou ake

To be successful in this role, you will bring your thought leadership, technical and transformational change expertise to:

• Lead the engagement with Deputy Secretaries and senior leaders to implement transformative organisational design and change management processes.
• Provide strong and professional change advice, services and support to ensure organisational change that delivers outcomes aligned with our strategy and vision.
• Coach and mentor junior team members to build change capability, knowledge and experience within the wider team.

You will also offer:

• In-depth knowledge of employment legislation as it relates to change.
• Proven ability to use data and insights to identify trends, risks and opportunities, to influence and guide organisational and system-level decision making. 
• A track record of developing effective working relationships and building credibility with managers at executive and senior levels. 
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

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 – Friday 31 October 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.