Principal Advisor

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 12-month Fixed Term role, based in Wellington.

We’re looking for a highly skilled Principal Advisor to join Te Pou Kaupapahere | Policy Group at the Ministry of Education. This is a pivotal role that supports our leadership team by managing specific streams of discrete work, driving strategic initiatives, managing complex work programmes, and delivering high-quality advice and solutions.

You’ll play a key part in supporting the delivery and running of systems and processes that enable the Ministry to achieve its purpose: an education system that delivers excellent and equitable outcomes for all ākonga in Aotearoa.

As Principal Advisor, you will lead the delivery of projects, publications, and business improvement initiatives across Te Pou Kaupapahere | Policy Group and the Office of the Hautū. You’ll provide expert advice on corporate systems, strategy, and service delivery, ensuring efficient operations and informed decision-making.

This role requires a proactive, solutions-focused leader who can navigate complexity, influence positive change, and champion continuous improvement. You’ll also work in partnership with Māori to embed Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles into our processes and systems.

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

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience working across complex organisations and within political environments.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage ambiguity and deliver results.
• Expertise in business improvement, systems, and process development.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
• The ability to plan and manage multiple priorities, balancing short-term demands with long-term objectives.
• A commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
• Knowledge of and experience of the Machinery of Government and/or public sector
• High proficiency in Microsoft products, including Microsoft Teams
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

 
In return, we can offer you the opportunity to contribute to an excellent team culture, a strong focus on the development of our people, and the ability to contribute to real change across education.>

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Pou Kaupapahere | Policy Group is responsible for whole-of-system, end-to-end policy integration covering early learning, compulsory schooling, and tertiary including Māori medium, te reo Māori, Pacific and Learning Support and international education policy.

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 Antony Harvey, Director, Office of the Deputy Secretary at Antony.Harvey@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight Tuesday 10 February 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.