Principal Advisor, 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.

As our Principal Advisor – Attendance Service Delivery Model, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping how attendance services are delivered across Aotearoa. You’ll bring strategic insight and expert advice to ensure our service delivery model is effective, consistent, and continuously improving.

This is a high-impact role where you’ll lead the development of operational frameworks, contribute to cross-agency collaboration, and use data-driven insights to inform decision-making and drive system-level change. You’ll also represent the Ministry in the establishment of multi-agency forums and lead evaluation activities that help us understand what’s working and where we can do better.

Salary range: $119,171 - $144,560 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 Principal Advisor Attendance Service Delivery Model

About you | Mōhou ake

You’re a strategic thinker with experience in advisory or service delivery roles - ideally within the public sector. You know how to navigate complexity, bring people together, and lead work programmes that deliver meaningful outcomes. Your ability to interpret data, identify trends, and translate insights into action sets you apart.

You’re confident engaging with senior stakeholders, influencing across agencies, and contributing to organisational strategy. You bring a collaborative mindset, a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and a passion for improving outcomes for students. You’re also someone who thrives in ambiguity, takes initiative, and brings a solutions-focused approach to everything you do.

You will also offer:

• Experience in a complex organisation
• Experience in building relationships and partnerships to achieve shared outcomes.
• Extensive experience in advisory, policy, or strategic roles within public service or service delivery contexts.
• Deep understanding of service models, operational frameworks, and system-level coordination.
• Proven ability to lead complex work programmes and contribute to organisational strategy.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

You will be joining 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.