Principal Advisor Māori Crown Engagement

• Influence system wide change
• Wellington based | Full-time | Permanent
• Provide expert, strategic advice and leadership in complex programmes of work
• Midpoint of $145,198 dependent on your professional skills and experience

What you’ll do – Ko tōu ake mahi

This is a high-impact, senior advisory role where you’ll shape the future of Māori health outcomes and influence system-wide change.

As a Principal Advisor, you will provide expert, strategic advice and leadership across complex programmes of work, working at the intersection of policy, delivery, and Māori Crown relationships.

You’ll operate in a dynamic environment where your insights, judgement, and ability to build trusted relationships will directly support better outcomes for whānau, hapū, iwi and Māori communities, while advancing the Ministry’s priorities and Te Tiriti obligations.

• Provide strategic leadership and authoritative advice to influence decision-making and shape work programmes that advance Māori health outcomes and Ministry priorities
• Strengthen and support Māori Crown relationships by working closely with whānau, hapū, iwi and key stakeholders, embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice
• Lead and deliver complex projects and workstreams, ensuring high-quality evidence-informed outputs and successful outcomes in a fast-paced environment
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships across the Ministry, the wider health system, government agencies and external partners to enable joined-up delivery
• Grow capability and drive continuous improvement by mentoring others, promoting best practice, and identifying emerging risks, trends and opportunities to inform proactive responses

What you’ll bring – Ko ngā pūkenga ōu

• Strong expertise in Māori Crown engagement, with proven ability to build trusted relationships with whānau, hapū, iwi and Māori communities within a Te Tiriti framework
• Deep understanding of te ao Māori, including tikanga, kawa and te reo Māori, and a demonstrated commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and equity
• Senior policy leadership with the ability to provide strategic advice, apply sound judgement, and deliver high-quality outcomes in complex environments
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience influencing across government and engaging Ministers and sector partners
• Strong systems thinking and political awareness, with the ability to navigate risk, ambiguity, and competing priorities while delivering impactful results

What we bring - Ngā hua o tō mātou whare

Discover a world of opportunities for personal and professional growth. We're not just a workplace; we're a whanau that values your well-being and the importance of work-life balance. At Manatū Hauora, we value the authentic ‘you’, ensuring that every voice is heard and every perspective matters. Your wellness is our priority, with comprehensive support and resources to keep you thriving. Join us today and be part of a team dedicated to improving healthcare.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings. Please contact us if you require any support to ensure the recruitment process is accessible.

Me pēhea te tono mai - How to apply 

Applications close on Tuesday 23rd June. 

Please note to be considered for this position you will have permanent ongoing working rights and be based in Wellington by the start date. If you plan to relocate, please add this detail to your cover letter.

View the position description here and apply, please follow the online process at our Careers Website. Please ensure you upload a CV and covering letter with all applications. If you have any questions, email the recruitment team at [email protected].