Senior Advisor - Schooling Operations

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

Permanent Position: Senior Advisor (0.8 FTE)

The Senior Advisor Schooling Operations provides advice and expertise to other key internal (including policy, curriculum and regional teams) and external stakeholders about statutory and regulatory requirements and obligations of school boards in relation to the successful operation of schools. 

The Senior Advisor School Operations supports specific programmes of work, new initiatives and process improvements to realise positive outcomes for children within the New Zealand Education system. The Senior Advisor needs to be skilled in managing organisational risk and developing key operational documents and works within the broader Te Mahau group to provide a seamless, integrated approach to implementing policies, processes and frameworks.

Salary range: $85,225 - $95,932 per annum + 3% 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

You will bring experience and knowledge of the Machinery of Government and the role of the Ministry. You will also offer:

• Proven experience in providing high-level advice and managing programmes of work.
• Knowledge of, or the ability to quickly learn, the statutory and regulatory requirements necessary to carry out regulatory functions within the education system.
• Strong written communication skills, with the ability to write clearly, present well-reasoned arguments, and tailor messages across a range of formats.
• Well-developed analytical skills, including the ability to define problems, evaluate options, identify solutions, and make sound decisions.
• Use data to support robust evaluation of programme outcomes, assuring quality, consistency and performance, justify decisions on investment and ensure effective management of public expenditure. 
• Demonstrated experience in relationship management and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience in preparing responses to official correspondence, including OIAs, Education Reports, and Ministerial Briefings.
• An ability to work independently and within a team environment, handle multiple tasks and work under pressure.
• The ability to review and provide feedback on written material prepared by team members.
• A collaborative mindset—someone who supports and constructively challenges colleagues to strengthen team performance.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Our Schools Operations team acts as the key link between the national office, the Takiwā, and the wider education sector. We provide support, advice, and guidance to help schools meet their regulatory obligations. As a team, we work closely together—supporting one another in our day-to-day work and in our professional growth. When challenges arise, we collaborate to meet deadlines and navigate difficulties together.

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 David Olivier: Manager School Operations at David.olivier@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Tuesday 3rd 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.