Manager, Attendance Service Delivery Model

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

This is a Wellington-based fulltime Fixed Term role until December 2027.

We’re looking for a strategic and experienced leader to join us as Manager, Attendance Service Delivery Model. This newly created role will lead the establishment of a national function to oversee the implementation and continuous improvement of attendance services, supporting better outcomes for students | ākonga across Aotearoa.

You will be responsible for the national delivery and performance of attendance services through contracted providers to ensure consistency, accountability, and high-quality services. You’ll ensure support is provided to the regional teams working directly with the providers. You’ll lead the first formal review of the service’s impact and effectiveness in 2027, helping shape its future direction. You’ll also lead the establishment of local multi-agency forums focused on attendance.

Salary range: $121,139 - $181,709 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 Manager Attendance Service Delivery Model

About you | Mōhou ake

You are a strategic and inclusive leader with a strong track record in operational delivery and support, contract management, and service improvement.

You bring experience working in complex environments, navigating ambiguity, and driving system-level change. Your ability to build trusted relationships across teams, providers, and other government agencies enables you to lead collaborative efforts that improve attendance outcomes.

You’re confident using data and insights to inform decisions, and you’re committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and fostering a culturally responsive, high-performing team culture.

You will also offer:

• People and operational leadership experience within a complex environment.
• Experience in developing and delivering integrated functional strategies, work programmes and budgets.
• Experience in leading and managing the development, implementation and ongoing monitoring of functional systems, frameworks and processes.
• Experience in building relationships and partnerships to achieve shared outcomes.
• Experience of contract management in a public or private sector context.
• Experience in performance monitoring, evaluation, and service review.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

You will be leading a small, newly established team who have a can-do attitude and passion for improving attendance outcomes. The team are a mixture of Wellington and remote workers and there is the opportunity for flexible working.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

New Zealand has a school attendance problem, and we know that high levels of school absence have a direct correlation to poorer life outcomes for our children. In response, the Government has set a goal of 80% of students being present for more than 90% of the term, by 2030. To achieve this goal, an Attendance Action Plan is now being rolled out. As part of the Plan, new Attendance Service Provider contracts have been awarded from 1 January 2026.

Our Attendance Service Delivery Model team has a key role to play in working with these new providers. The team will shape a national approach that delivers effective, accountable, and high-performing attendance services across Aotearoa - setting clear expectations and holding providers to account for results. This team is part of the Ministry’s wider System Delivery Group and works closely with our regional teams and other functions responsible for improving attendance. 

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 Tracy Mellor, Director, Attendance Services Review tracy.mellor@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight Sunday 30 November 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.