Platform Manager (Data Platforms)

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 have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Platform Manager – Data to step into a key leadership role within an established and high-performing digital team. This is a high-impact position responsible for ensuring our enterprise data platforms, products and processes are combining to deliver effective business outcomes and are supported by the right people, systems, and strategy.

You’ll play a vital role in managing relationships with both internal stakeholders and external vendors, shaping platform roadmaps, work programme planning and providing strategic insights into how the ministry can make greater use of data. You’ll utilise a broad and deep understanding of the data and analytics domain in supporting strategic planning alongside the Data & Digital leadership teams.

This role reports to the Data Delivery Manager and works closely with enterprise architects, vendors, and stakeholders across the Ministry and Public Sector to ensure the data platforms are fit-for-purpose, future-ready, and aligned with organisational needs.

Salary range: $164,265 - $199,853 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 Platform Manager Data Platforms

About you | Mōhou ake

You are a strategic and technically astute leader who brings a deep understanding of enterprise data platforms, vendor management, and the data warehousing software development lifecycle (SDLC). You’re equally comfortable engaging in architecture discussions or preparing updates for senior leaders and Ministers.

You bring a broad view of data platform strategy but can also dive deep into technical or delivery issues when needed. You lead with empathy, manage expectations well, and collaborate across technical and non-technical audiences with clarity and credibility.

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector.

 To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• A strong technical background in data, ideally having progressed through relevant technical domains and into management or leadership roles.
• Proven experience leading or influencing high-performing platform or technical teams, particularly in a matrix or vendor-supported environment.
• Strong customer engagement and expectation management skills, with the ability to navigate complex internal and external stakeholder needs.
• Good understanding of enterprise data architecture and the ability to contribute to architectural direction.
• Experience managing a variety of vendors (e.g. Oracle, SAP, Microsoft, SAS etc) and driving value from vendor relationships.
• Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to quarterly planning and long-term platform roadmaps.
• Confidence in preparing and presenting information to senior stakeholders, including Ministerial updates.
• The ability to translate technical issues into clear business language.
• Excellent communication, planning, and leadership skills.
• A calm and thoughtful approach under pressure.
• The ability to adapt and respond to changing circumstances and pressure
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Matihiko | Digital leads the Ministry’s technology strategy, overseeing digital and data services, driving the cross-agency Connected Ako strategy, enabling system-wide digital investment, and aligning with government digital and data best practices.

Its two core responsibilities are:

•     Operating a secure, resilient digital environment for the Ministry, including networks, devices, tools, and data infrastructure.

•    Managing digital services that support the education sector’s funding, enrolment, assessment, identity, and school network needs 

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.

The Ministry of Education has exclusively partnered with Momentum Consulting. Apply now, or for a confidential discussion, please contact Caolan Keegan, Principal Consultant and Managing Partner on   +64 27 515 5141 or email Caolan.Keegan@momentum.co.nz

Applications close Midnight Friday 1 August 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.