Senior Adviser Data & AI

Ki te puāwai te ahurea, Ka ora te iwi
Culture is thriving, the people are well 

Manatū Taonga is a small Ministry with a big mandate, a wide reach and a deep commitment to the cultural wellbeing of Aotearoa. We’re looking for a Senior Adviser Data & AI to help us harness the power of data and emerging technologies to improve how we work and serve our communities. 

Kōrero mō te tūranga | About the role

As a Senior Adviser Data & AI, you’ll work to lead the design and implementation of enterprise-level data solutions, integrating AI and machine learning into business systems to enhance reporting, workflows, and user experience. You’ll work across the Ministry to promote data literacy, effective AI practices and ensure compliance with privacy and governance standards.

This is a hands-on role where you'll use your technical skills to deliver data and AI solutions, while helping shape the Ministry’s approach to emerging technologies. You'll work across teams to improve systems, build data capability, and embed AI into Ministry processes.

What You’ll Do

• Work to maintain and improve the Ministry’s management and utilisation of new and existing datasets


• Translate complex data concepts into plain language for non-technical audiences.


• Lead development of data and AI/ML solutions that improve system performance and user experience.


• Drive the Ministry’s AI strategy and integrate emerging technologies into existing systems.

Kōrero mōu | About you

You will be an experienced data scientist/analyst/engineer with real-world experience of using data to solve business problems. You work hard to stay up to date with new and emerging technologies (including AI and machine learning) and champion their safe adoption. You are comfortable leading your own projects and working with others as needed. You know what you don't know and when to ask for assistance to achieve the best outcome. You will also have the following competencies:

• Demonstrated proficiency in T-SQL and Python, knowledge of TypeScript/, JavaScript, PowerShell, and experience operating in a Microsoft environment.


• Experience with API integrations, ETL procedures, and Microsoft Power Platform.


• Exceptional relationship management, strategic influence and analytical skills.


• Proven capability in data and AI domains (minimum 3-4 years)


• A tertiary qualification in data science, computer science, or equivalent experience.

Please download a copy of the full Position Description by clicking here 

Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the competencies listed in the position description

Me pēhea te tono | How to apply

For more information about the role and how to apply, please follow the online process on our Careers Website.

Applications close 5pm on Sunday 14 September 2025

For enquiries about this position contact [email protected]

Āheinga | Eligibility
If you are not a New Zealand citizen, you must hold current eligibility to work in New Zealand and for Manatū Taonga in order to work for Manatū Taonga. Please refer to the New Zealand Immigration Service for further information

To learn more about Manatū Taonga | Ministry for Culture & Heritage please explore our Corporate Website (mch.govt.nz)