Principal Advisor, Business Management
Wellington, NZ
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 full-time permanent role based in Wellington and we are accepting interest from those located within the Wellington region.
As a Principal Advisor in the Business Management team, you will provide thought leadership and expert advice on strategic and operational matters across Te Pou Taunaki | Learning Support. You will lead complex work programmes, contribute to future focused planning, and support the Director Business Management and the Te Pou Taunaki Leadership Team with high quality, evidence-based advice.
You will work across the group to harness data and insights, strengthen business processes, and ensure high quality, evidence-based advice. You will also help lead change by maintaining visibility, identifying risks, and supporting consistent, high-quality delivery across Te Pou Taunaki.
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
About you | Mōhou ake
To be successful in this role you will bring strong strategic thinking, excellent relationship skills, and the ability to work confidently across complex issues. You will influence at senior levels, navigate ambiguity, and provide high quality advice grounded in insight and evidence.
You will also offer:
- Sound understanding of the New Zealand education system, particularly learning support, and relevant legislation
- Experience working in a complex, multi layered organisation
- Strong skills in using data, insights, planning and reporting to guide decisions
- Experience leading or contributing to strategic initiatives with organisational impact
- Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and experience giving effect to Tiriti in practice
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to lead, coach and mentor others to build capability
- Political awareness and ability to navigate a dynamic public sector environment.
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
This is a new team where you will have the opportunity to contribute to shaping processes we will put in place to support the Hautū and Leadership Team.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
Te Pou Taunaki | Learning Support group enables specific targeted and tailored support to students who have specific needs impacting their ability to participate in education and progress in their learning, ensuring the necessary resources and expertise is in place to assist with achievement and everyday life.
The Group is 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.
The Group has three key priorities:
Identify & Assess Need: Leading practice, design and guidance for assessment and needs identification. This includes monitoring and responding to need from a system level view.
Prioritise, Plan & Monitor: Leading the delivery approach for targeted and tailored support. This includes monitoring delivery and improving learning support services and associated capabilities.
Delivery Design: Leading practice, design and guidance for services delivered by Ministry staff, contracted providers and by sector partners, and adjusting delivery strategies as needed.
The Business Management team supports the group through high quality planning, reporting, insights, and strategic leadership. You will join a collaborative and supportive team committed to continuous improvement and making a real difference for ākonga and whānau.
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 Tracey Turner, Director Business Management at Tracey.Turner@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight Friday 27 March 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.
