Qualifications Operational Policy Design Manager

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

• Fixed term, full time position until 30 June 2027
• Based in Wellington

The Qualifications Operational Policy Design Manager is responsible for shaping and driving the organisation’s operational policy framework for qualifications and assessment systems.

The role focuses on developing, maintaining, and continuously improving policy to ensure it is clear, evidence-based, and supports consistent, high-quality delivery across both internal teams and external stakeholders.

This position provides strategic leadership and expert policy advice, overseeing the full policy design process from development through to implementation and review. It ensures all policy settings align with legislative and regulatory requirements, organisational priorities, and desired system outcomes.

Overall, the role plays a critical part in enabling effective qualification and assessment systems by ensuring policies are coherent, fit-for-purpose, and support strong, consistent practice across the sector.

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Salary range: $107,120- $160,680 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

To be successful in the role you will have:

• Proven experience leading in complex environments, delivering integrated strategies, work programmes, and budgets aligned to organisational objectives.
• Strong capability in developing, implementing, and refining operational policy frameworks, particularly in qualifications, assessment, quality assurance, and regulatory systems.
• Ability to build, lead, and develop high-performing, inclusive teams, fostering professional growth, shared purpose, and a positive, responsive culture.
• Demonstrated success leading organisational change and large-scale transitions (e.g., NCEA reforms), including planning, risk management, and ensuring continuity to achieve intended outcomes.
• Advanced analytical and conceptual skills, with the ability to interpret complex requirements and translate them into clear, practical, and actionable policy.
• Deep understanding of NCEA and international qualification systems, with the ability to contribute to system-wide improvements and work effectively across programmes, stakeholders, and competing priorities.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

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 Jan Holliday, Programme Manager at jan.holliday@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Wednesday, 10 June 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.