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 an exciting opportunity to lead the Ministry's enterprise risk management function and help shape a strong risk-intelligent culture across one of New Zealand's largest and most complex public sector organisations. You'll play a critical role in informing better decision-making, strengthening organisational resilience, and providing risk insights to senior leaders and governance boards.

As Manager Risk, you will own the development, implementation and maintenance of the Ministry's enterprise risk framework. You'll work closely with business leaders across the Ministry in supporting them to navigate uncertainties, identify emerging risks and opportunities, and to make informed decisions that support the Ministry's objectives within established tolerances.

This role is positioned within a newly integrated Audit, Risk and Assurance group focused on safeguarding trust and confidence in the Ministry and improving its capability and performance.

Salary range: $121,139 - $181,709 per annum plus 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

You will be an experienced and highly motivated leader who enjoys working with executives, influencing whole-of-organisational thinking and helping leaders make better decisions. You will bring credibility, curiosity and sound judgement, along with the ability to build trusted relationships across diverse stakeholder groups. You're equally comfortable discussing strategic risks with executive leaders as you are coaching teams and developing practical solutions that improve organisational outcomes.

You will also offer:

• Proven track record in risk management, assurance, compliance or a related discipline within a complex organisation
• Demonstrated success building strong relationships and influencing senior leaders and stakeholders to think differently about risk
• Strong analytical capability, including the ability to identify trends, emerging risks and opportunities, and generate timely and meaningful insights to support decision-making
• Experience in developing and implementing risk frameworks, tools and guidance that support organisational performance and outcomes
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and confidently to executive and governance audiences
• Leadership experience with a proven ability to build capability, foster collaboration and develop high-performing teams
• Knowledge of contemporary enterprise risk management practices, the three lines model and public sector accountability frameworks
• A commitment to continuous improvement and passion for embedding a proactive, risk-intelligent culture
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a newly reconfigured leadership team with a mandate to influence, innovate and make a positive difference. You'll work alongside experienced audit, risk and assurance professionals in a collaborative environment that values fresh thinking, professional growth and continuous improvement. If you are looking for a role where your expertise will be visible, valued and impactful, we'd love to hear from you

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The Audit, Risk and Assurance team is positioned within Te Pou Rangatōpū | Corporate and provides independent and objective insights that support effective governance, risk management and organisational performance. The team works closely with senior leaders across the Ministry to identify opportunities, strengthen controls and support the delivery of strategic priorities.

As part of a newly strengthened group, the team brings together internal audit, risk and assurance capability to provide integrated insights and advice that help the Ministry navigate complexity and achieve better outcomes for New Zealand's education system.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your Resume and Cover Letter by using the ‘Apply Now' 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 James Jong, Chief Internal Auditor at james.jong@education.govt.nz

Applications close 11.59pm on Sunday, 18 October 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.