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 Wellington-based, full-time Fixed term or secondment opportunity until 30 July 2027.

This Principal Advisor role provides strategic leadership and high-quality advice across Business Operations, leading complex work and shaping solutions that improve outcomes for ākonga. You’ll work at pace across priority programmes, translating policy into practical implementation and influencing decision-making at senior levels.

As Principal Advisor, you will: 

• Lead, scope and deliver complex, high-impact work, translating policy into operational delivery
• Provide clear, compelling advice to senior leaders on strategic risks, issues and priorities
• Work collaboratively across the Ministry and with stakeholders to design and implement effective solutions
• Use data, evidence and insight to guide decision-making, monitor performance and drive continuous improvement

Salary range: $119,171 - $144,560 per annum + KiwiSaver. 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

You’re a strategic thinker and trusted advisor, comfortable leading complex work and turning ambiguity into clear, compelling advice for senior decision-makers. You thrive in collaborative environments and bring strong judgement, influence and credibility.

As Principal Advisor, you’ll be

• Proven in your ability to lead and deliver complex, high impact work programmes with clear, persuasive writing
• A strong relationship builder who can influence, collaborate and bring diverse perspectives together
• Highly analytical, using evidence and insight to shape decisions and identify risks and opportunities
• A critical thinker bringing intellectual leadership, resilience and sound judgement in fast-paced, complex environments
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

This is your opportunity to influence the future of education in Aotearoa. You’ll be part of a passionate team working at the centre of Te Poutāhū to support teaching and learning nationwide.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The purpose of Te Poutāhū is to lead the national curricula for Aotearoa New Zealand and associated systems and processes of assessment and aromatawai.

We design, develop and provide curriculum services for teachers, kaiako, leaders, ākonga, their whānau and communities that reflect their identities, languages and cultures. We bring together curriculum, teaching expertise and evidence for the development, support and review of inclusive curricula, assessment and NCEA. Our strengths are across te reo Māori, mātauranga Māori, disability, inclusive learning support and culturally relevant content so that Te Mahau supports learning that is inclusive for all ākonga.

We support the people who are closest to, and directly serve, ākonga and whānau. We do this through Te Mahau where we connect with the sector, working collaboratively to identify priorities and design local solutions.

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, General Manager, Business Operations at Antony. Harvey @education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight Thursday 23 July 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.