Principal Advisor

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

Full-time, Permanent, Flexible Location

The Principal Advisor, Ākonga Māori Outcomes is part of a team that develops, delivers and monitors priority work programmes aimed at improving outcomes for ākonga Māori. This role supports Te Mahau | Education Services to strengthen the impact of delivery across English-medium, Māori-medium and Kaupapa Māori settings.

You will lead and contribute to strategic projects, provide high-quality advice, and use evidence and insights to help shape services that improve participation, progress and achievement for tamariki and rangatahi Māori. Working closely with colleagues across the wider Ministry, you will help connect national priorities with regional delivery and support continuous improvement across the education system.

You will also build and maintain trusted relationships with Māori organisations, peak bodies, regional teams and sector stakeholders, ensuring the voices of whānau, communities and educators inform the design and delivery of services.

Salary range: $119,000 - $144,000 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

 
For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here.

About you | Mōhou ake

We are looking for an experienced principal-level advisor who is passionate about improving educational outcomes for ākonga Māori and bringing a strong Te Tiriti-informed lens to their work.

You will be comfortable leading complex pieces of work, building strategic relationships, and providing high-quality advice to a range of audiences. You will be a collaborative and thoughtful professional with strong analytical skills and the ability to influence positive change across a complex environment.

You will also offer:

• Experience leading strategic initiatives, programmes or projects in complex environments.
• Experience building and maintaining trusted relationships with Māori organisations, stakeholders and partners to achieve shared outcomes.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking and written communication skills, including developing high-quality advice for senior leaders.
• Knowledge of education provision across English-medium, Māori-medium and Kaupapa Māori settings.
• The ability to communicate effectively in both English and te reo Māori.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

This is an opportunity to join a highly committed team focused on making a meaningful difference for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau Māori within a complex education system. You will work alongside knowledgeable and passionate colleagues in an environment that values collaboration, critical thinking, innovation, and strong relationships. We offer a flexible and supportive workplace where continuous learning, professional growth, and development are actively encouraged.

 
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake 

The Ākonga Māori Outcomes team sits within Te Mahau | Education Services, and within the Operational Standards and Support group. The team develops, delivers and monitors work programmes, services and initiatives that support equitable and excellent outcomes for Māori learners and their whānau. On a day-to-day basis, our work can include supporting the appropriate design of services or interventions, project and relationship management, development of guidance material and supportive resources, or contract management. 

Working closely with regional teams, Te Pou Tuarongo | Māori Education and other Ministry groups, the team provides leadership, advice and support to strengthen education services across English-medium, Māori-medium and Kaupapa Māori settings. Through evidence-informed practice, partnership and collaboration, the team contributes to system improvements that enable Māori learners to succeed as Māori. 

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 Jodie Robertson, Manager Ākonga Māori Outcomes at Jodie.Robertson@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Friday 27 July 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.