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 full-time permanent role based in Wellington.

We are looking for an experienced and inspiring senior leader to play a key role in the Ministry’s stewardship of education Crown entities, agencies and Boards.

As Senior Manager, Monitoring and Appointments, you will provide complementary leadership across the Monitoring and Appointments function, with a particular focus on operational delivery, people leadership and building a high-performing team.

You will lead a team responsible for delivering high-quality monitoring and appointments products and services, ensuring work programmes are effectively managed and deliver timely, robust advice and support. You will oversee the Ministry’s day-to-day monitoring of agencies within the portfolio and the delivery of appointments advice and processes for the Boards for which the Ministry is responsible.

A key part of your role will be managing operational relationships with monitored agencies and stakeholders at the appointments interface. Drawing on sound judgement, data and insights, you will help identify performance trends, risks and opportunities and ensure the team’s work supports informed decision making.

You will also provide governance leadership and support for Boards, including oversight of Board effectiveness and performance alongside the Director, Monitoring and Appointments. You will contribute to lifting agency performance by sharing information, promoting good practice and providing advice on entity performance.

At the heart of the role is people leadership. While reporting to the General Manager, System, Connections and Early Learning Policy, you will provide day-to-day leadership, coaching and oversight across the function, developing the capability of your people and creating a positive, inclusive and high-performing team culture. You will work alongside the Director to manage capacity, prioritisation and workforce planning across the Monitoring and Appointments portfolio.

We are also advertising the Director, Monitoring and Appointments vacancy. Together, the Director and Senior Manager roles will provide strategic stewardship and operational leadership across the Monitoring and Appointments portfolio

Salary range: $142,856 - $214,284 per annum + Kiwisaver.  The successful candidate will be appointed based on their skills and experience. Applicants are welcome to indicate their salary expectations as part of the recruitment process
 

For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here Senior Manager Monitoring and Appointments

About you | Mōhou ake

We would love to hear from you if you are an experienced people leader who combines strategic perspective with a strong focus on delivery. You will be comfortable working in a complex environment, bringing sound judgement, building trusted relationships and supporting people to deliver high-quality work.

You will bring:

• experience working at a senior level in executive appointments and/or governance and performance, particularly in the public sector
• strong people and operational leadership experience within a complex environment
• a track record of building inclusive, high-performing teams and developing the capability of others
• a strong understanding of Machinery of Government, ministerial levers and relevant legislation, including the Crown Entities Act 2004
• sound knowledge of government and public-sector processes, with experience working in an advisory capacity with Crown agents, Boards and Ministers
• the ability to use data and insights to identify trends, risks and opportunities and inform decision making
• excellent relationship management, facilitation and interpersonal skills, with the credibility to engage with and influence senior decision makers and stakeholders
• the ability to coach and constructively challenge others, encouraging collaboration and building capability across a team
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

This is a great opportunity to influence an important Ministry function, work across a diverse and significant portfolio, and lead talented people to deliver monitoring, governance and appointments work that supports strong performance across the education system.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The Systems, Connections and Early Learning Policy Group provides advice and stewardship across the education system, building strong connections and relationships domestically and internationally, with a particular strength in early learning and system policy.

The Monitoring and Appointments function is responsible for supporting the Ministry's stewardship responsibilities across the education sector through Crown entity monitoring, board appointments, governance support and strategic performance oversight. The function works closely with Ministers, Crown entities, statutory bodies and education agencies to strengthen governance, improve organisational performance and support achievement of Government priorities.

The Group also includes Early Childhood Education policy teams, the System Policy team, and the International Cooperation and Engagement team. Together, we lead work that strengthens education at a system level to ensure it is inclusive, responsive and delivers equitable outcomes for learners across Aotearoa.

Te Pou Kaupapahere is responsible for whole-of-system policy integration across early learning, schooling and tertiary education. We provide integrated policy advice to Ministers and work closely with government agencies to deliver joined-up solutions to complex challenges.

We are proud of our collaborative culture, our focus on supporting one another, and our commitment to developing our people.

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 [John Brooker, General Manager, System Connections and Early Learning Policy at John.Brooker@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight Wednesday 11 November 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.