Lead Advisor

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

We’re looking for a strategic and collaborative Lead Adviser to join our School Operations team in a secondment or fixed term position until 30 November 2026. We are flexible on the location for this position. In this pivotal role, you’ll lead the development and delivery of regulatory supports and systems that enable takiwā staff to work effectively with schools throughout the country.

This role involves working closely with internal and external stakeholders to solve complex issues, using data and insights to inform decisions, and ensuring high-quality service delivery. You’ll also mentor team members, build capability, and help strengthen the overall effectiveness of the School Operations team.

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.

Please note: Applications from affected kaimahi | employees will be given priority consideration.

For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here.

About you | Mōhou ake

We are seeking a strategic and collaborative Lead Advisor who brings deep expertise in regulatory systems, a strong understanding of the New Zealand education landscape, and a commitment to delivering equitable outcomes for ākonga and whānau.

You will have the ability to lead complex workstreams, contribute to continuous improvement, and provide future-focused thought leadership that strengthens our operational systems and supports takiwā staff in their work with schools. We will value your experience using data to inform decision making – in this case, for the robust evaluation of programme outcomes, their quality, consistency and performance, to ensure strong justification on investment decisions.

You will also offer:

• Sound knowledge and understanding of the regulatory system, specifically for Education and Training Act as well as the Children’s Act and the associated regulations.
• Proven experience in education operations, policy, or regulatory systems.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to translate vision into action.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• A commitment to equity and improving outcomes for learners across Aotearoa.
• Experience and ability to learn IT systems that are new to you.
• Experience in building relationships and partnerships to achieve shared outcomes.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Network and Regulatory Group is responsible for the regulatory systems of early learning and schooling, administers school network, leads interventions into schools and early learning centres where there are breaches, and provides nationally consistent advice to the front line staff.

Our work:

• Set the expectations within the Ministry and sector that enable change, build capability and support effective regulation.
• Provide more effective regulation through a graduated set of interventions and support regulatory activities across schools.
• Our regulatory levers support several priorities – we have the tools to influence, support and direct education sectors to lift their performance, particularly focusing on curriculum, attendance, and child protection.

Our Schools Operations team acts as the key link between the national office, the Takiwā, and the wider education sector. We provide support, advice, and guidance to help schools meet their regulatory obligations. As a team, we work closely together—supporting one another in our day-to-day work and in our professional growth. When challenges arise, we collaborate to meet deadlines and navigate difficulties together.

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 David Olivier: School Operations Manager at david.olivier@education.govt.nz.

Applications close Midnight – Tuesday 24 February 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.