Principal Advisor Organisational Development, Workforce & Capability
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 New Zealand, 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 students in our education system.
About this role |Mō tēnei tūranga
This role provides expert leadership in organisational development and workforce planning. It focuses on designing and implementing strategies and processes that improve workforce capability, culture, and performance. Alongside this primary focus, the role may lead or support other Organisational Development programmes such as culture, and employee engagement.
Strong relationships with leaders are essential, as is the ability to work closely with the People team to ensure workforce strategies are practical, people-focused, and aligned with organisational needs. The role also includes coaching and mentoring to build capability within the team and across the organisation.
Salary range: $118,371 - $143,760 per annum + 3% Kiwisaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary based on their individual skills and experience.
For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here.
About you | Mōhou ake
With a breadth and depth of experience which enables you to confidently confront any challenge, you will be able to work semi-autonomously and deliver effectively in a large organisation.
You will offer:
- Proven experience at the Principal Advisor level in organisational development, with a strong focus on workforce capability, and metrics.
- Experience working in a complex public sector organisation or a similar setting.
- Ability to build relationships and partnerships with senior leaders to achieve goals.
- Experience in delivering projects with multiple leaders, managing different perspectives to reach a successful outcome.
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
You will also have the following competencies:
- Superior presentation and writing skills.
- Strategic analysis and critical thinking skills.
- A proven track record of collaborative work across multiple workstreams to achieve shared outcomes.
- A solid understanding of the machinery of government.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
Te Pou Rangatōpū | Corporate group is responsible for delivering essential Ministry-wide statutory and corporate functions. We enable the organisation to operate effectively and help fulfil the statutory and reporting obligations of Te Tāhuhu.
Workforce & Insights is part of the People, Sustainability & Place team which supports people leaders to build high-performing teams capable of delivering on our purpose. We focus on providing specialist service and advice in response to workforce needs across the Ministry and contribute to the development of talent and workforce plans. The team supports and uplifts capability with self-service systems to ensure greater levels of responsiveness, accessibility and integration of our services.
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 and a confidential conversation, please contact Ross Macklow, Manager Workforce & Insights at ross.macklow@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight – Monday 22 September 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.
