Manager, Research

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About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

• Permanent, full-time position
• Location flexible

We are looking for an experience and passionate leader to manage the Research team within the Sensitive Claims Unit.

This role reports to the Director, Sensitive Claims and is a key member of the Sensitive Claims leadership team. The role has oversight and responsibility of the sensitive claims research function, responsible for preliminary research into individual claims, as well as broader historical research into specific schools to enable the seamless review of claims of abuse or neglect.

The role will ensure research processes are robust, centred on equitable, mana‑enhancing outcomes for claimants, and managed in accordance with approved policies and processes.

Salary range: $107,120- $160,680 per annum plus 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 looking for a Manager with the experience and ability to lead a team of researchers to deliver comprehensive, timely and well-supported research outputs into redress claims lodged with the Ministry. You will be one of three managers leading operational functions within the sensitive claims unit.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Proven people‑centred leadership experience in complex, high‑trust, or sensitive environments.
• Strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a demonstrated commitment to Māori–Crown partnership and equitable outcomes.
• Experience leading research, investigations, or complex process‑driven work.
• The ability to analyse information, identify trends and risks, and translate insights into practical improvements.
• Confidence engaging with senior leaders, stakeholders, and inter‑agency partners.
• Continuous improvement mindset and the courage to challenge inequitable systems and practices.
• Highly developed communication skills, grounded in empathy, integrity, and cultural safety.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake 

The Sensitive Claims team leads and delivers the Ministry’s redress process for addressing claims of historic abuse or neglect in state schools. A sensitive claim is defined as a claim where an individual alleges that they were abused or neglected at a state or residential special school and is seeking some form of redress. We ensure claims are managed in a respectful, mana-enhancing way, and that claimants and their whānau are at the centre of everything we do.

We also work closely with the Crown Response Office and other state redress agencies on delivering the Government’s Redress response to the recommendations of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State Care.

Our group sits within Te Pou Taunaki | Learning Support group who are accountable for providing functional leadership to all learning support services spanning national functions and regional delivery, delivered either in-house, by education providers or by other providers.

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 Jenna-Faith Allan, Director, Sensitive Claims at JennaFaith.Allan@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight, Wednesday 13 May 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.