Job Opportunities in New Zealand

Risk and Systems Governance Group
Fixed Term to March 2026

• Are you a policy or strategy professional who excels in systems thinking and solving complex problems?
• Do you want to be at the heart of government, supporting critical strategic decision-making?
• Are you keen to support efforts to build New Zealand's resilience to the most serious hazards and national security threats facing our country?

Ko wai mātou | About us
The National Risk Directorate (NRD) drives a proactive approach to strengthening resilience to National Risks across government through our leadership of New Zealand's National Risk and Resilience Framework.
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
The role of the Principal Advisor will be to lead and deliver actionable advice, working with agencies across government, to senior decision-makers through the National Risk and Resilience Framework.
As part of our team, you will contribute to our work programme by:

• Leading delivery of core business as usual activities and targeted projects to further develop New Zealand's National Risk and Resilience Framework.
• Proactively developing strong working relationships with government agencies across the national security and hazard risk sectors, to build up-to-date awareness of national risk management and support the effective governance of National Risks.
• Providing advice to the Director, Executive Director, cross-government Chief Executives (via the National Security Board and the National Hazards Board) and Ministers on opportunities that will have the greatest impact and build resilience across National Risks.
• Leading and supporting public engagement on National Risks, including by developing and maintaining public information on the National Risk and Resilience Framework, and engaging with public and non-government stakeholders.
• Proactively fostering international engagements and building connections to best practice (e.g. through attendance and support to bilateral meetings and international conferences related to the Directorate's work programme).

A full job description is available through this application.
Ko wai koe | About you
We select on capability and welcome a wide range of applications where the candidate can demonstrate the following:

• Critical and strategic thinking skills, including experience providing advice in a public sector organisation;
• Significant experience in delivering quality written reports and presentations, with high levels of accuracy, and an ability to present complex information in simple yet engaging ways;
• A track record of maintaining effective relationships at all levels, both internal and external to an organisation;
• Experience and/or interest in learning about New Zealand's National Risk and Resilience Framework;
• A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience at the strategic level in national security, hazard risk, and/or other areas relating to resilience desirable (but not essential).

To be successful in the role we are looking for a kete of skills including, sound judgement, excellent communication (written and verbal), high level of EQ, integrity and self-management, resilience and adaptability, together with an ethos of service and drive to support improved outcomes for New Zealanders.
Security Requirements | Ngā Whakaritenga Haumarutanga
Normally you must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a Resident class visa. Alternatively, you must have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia with a 15 year checkable background. To find out more check your eligibility for a TOP SECRET SPECIAL security clearance.
Ta matou e tuku | What we offer
We're a delivery-focused organisation and we pride ourselves on the quality of our people. The role comes with a competitive salary in the range of $144,291 - $161,266 p/a (including Kiwi Saver contributions), plus benefits package, plus:

• Office space close to bus and train connections, Wellington CBD.
• The chance to be part of a team that promotes a positive and collaborative work environment.
• All roles are flexible by default in meeting the needs of our people, teams, the department and our stakeholders, with a positive work life balance encouraged.

Me pehea te tono | How to apply
If you would like to be considered for this role, please apply online. Applications close at 8pm, Sunday 22 September.