Principal Privacy 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

Our Principal Privacy Advisor reports to and provides expert advice and support to the Manager, Privacy. This is a Wellington based, permanent position. The role is situated in the wider Legal and Privacy team, the Privacy team develops and delivers a programme of work to lift the Ministry’s privacy compliance, capability and culture.

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

About you | Mōhou ake

We’re looking for a senior privacy professional who combines strategic thinking with practical judgement. You’re someone who can see the bigger picture, anticipate emerging risks, and meet these with clear and practicable processes, guidance, and advice.  You’re comfortable operating in ambiguity, using your knowledge and experience to guide others through complex or evolving issues.

You’ll have people leadership experience (whether or not you’ve held formal leadership roles), supporting and lifting capability of others through coaching or mentoring, and setting clear examples and expectations of what good looks like. You communicate clearly and confidently, tailoring your approach to your audience.

To be successful in the role, you’ll be someone who’s motivated by building a positive, pragmatic privacy culture that enables good outcomes.

You will also offer:

• Demonstrated experience operating as a senior thought leader in privacy, risk, legal, or related regulatory environments.
• Experience shaping strategy, frameworks, and system-wide approaches, not just delivering advice.
• An in-depth, applied understanding of the Privacy Act and related legislation.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

The Privacy team is a constructive and collaborative working environment. Advisors have a high level of trust and autonomy, backed up by supportive leadership. 

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Pou Rangatōpū | Corporate keeps the Ministry safe by delivering essential Ministry-wide statutory and corporate functions. We deliver improvements to how the Ministry works, so we can achieve our priorities. The Privacy team is responsible for helping the Ministry get privacy right, so people trust us with their data.

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 Maya Jones, Manager, Privacy at maya.jones@education.govt.nz.

Applications close Midnight – Sunday 19 April 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.