Senior Policy Adviser [PN0337]

Pou Tohu Matua Kaupapa Here | Senior Policy Adviser

Te Aka | Policy, Performance & Insights

Permanent / Fulltime

Wellington

Salary Range   $112,646 - $130,434

Ki te puāwai te ahurea, ka ora te iwi
If culture is thriving, the people will be well 

Do you want to support a broad policy work programme that will help shape the future of New Zealand’s creative and cultural sectors?

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Senior Policy Adviser to join our Arts & Heritage policy team.

Kōrero mō te tūranga | About the role

In this role, you’ll work on complex and high impact policy challenges, identifying emerging opportunities and issues across New Zealand’s creative and cultural sectors. You’ll play a key role in shaping system-wide thinking and providing strategic advice to Minsters on these challenges and their implications for the sectors.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Provide high-quality advice to Ministers on complex, cross-cutting issues


• Lead and contribute to high-impact policy projects that drive system change


• Work across a range of policy levers –including regulatory, funding, and system-level


• Collaborate with other government agencies and stakeholders across the cultural, creative, heritage sectors


• Support and mentor others as part of a high-performing team.

Kōrero mōu | About you

We are looking for an enthusiastic team player who can hit the ground running, think strategically, work through ambiguity and manage relationships. In return we offer an inclusive Ministry, working at pace on varied work that provides ample opportunities for learning and growth.

You will need to demonstrate:

• A track record of leading and delivering on complex pieces of analysis and advice, applying appropriate frameworks


• Excellent analytical and communication skills, with attention to detail and ability to work at pace while maintaining quality


• Proven ability to deliver succinct, accurate and well-reasoned policy products that anticipate and meet the needs of Ministers


• Sound judgment, political acumen and adaptability


• Effective stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills, with experience influencing and shaping thinking at senior levels


• Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and how to consider its application in your work. 

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 Sunday 9 August 2026.

For enquiries about this position contact Mata Moke  [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. Please refer to the New Zealand Immigration Service for further information