Personal Assistant | Kaiāwhina Whaiaro

About the Role

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is seeking an experienced Personal Assistant to join their Iwi Strategy and Partnerships Group in Wellington. This permanent position involves delivering high-level support to three Kaihautū/Directors as they focus on advancing strategic priorities and building robust relationships with iwi, hapū, and Māori partners. The role operates within DOC’s renewed Treaty Operating Model aimed at enhancing partnership clarity and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

• Offer proactive executive and administrative assistance to three senior leaders.
• Manage multifaceted calendars, emails, correspondence, and travel plans efficiently.
• Organize meetings, hui, workshops, and events, overseeing logistics, agendas, documentation, minute taking, and follow-ups.
• Ensure leaders are well-prepared for engagements through timely distribution of briefing materials.
• Navigate competing priorities, anticipate challenges, and facilitate sound decision-making.
• Draft routine communications, monitor tasks, and manage responses to information requests.
• Maintain effective document management and administrative processes.
• Establish and nurture strong relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Identify and suggest improvements for administrative workflows and service quality.
• Provide accurate and timely information and adjust effectively to evolving business demands.
• Contribute ideas and feedback to enhance team and organizational performance.

Skills and Experience

A solid understanding of the Māori-Crown partnership is essential, alongside a respectful approach towards tikanga Māori and cultural diversity. Experience participating in Māori cultural practices like waiata and pepeha is highly valued.

• Demonstrated success as a Personal Assistant or Executive Assistant supporting senior leadership.
• Exceptional organizational, prioritization, and time management skills capable of handling multiple demands.
• Expertise in managing complex diaries, coordinating meetings and hui, preparing agendas and accurate minutes.
• Strong communication aptitude, both verbal and written, capable of building trusted stakeholder relationships.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism when managing sensitive information.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office and quick adaptability to new technologies.
• Meticulous attention to detail and dedication to producing quality work.
• Proactive, flexible, and collaborative mindset proficient in navigating complex organizational environments.

What We Offer

The DOC promotes an inclusive and equitable workplace culture that supports participation and growth for all employees, aligning with organizational values and behaviors.

Additional Information

Work location: Wellington, New Zealand (onsite)
Employment type: Full-time, permanent
Salary range: 69,429 to 95,000 NZD annually, dependent on experience and skills.
Eligibility: Applicants must have a valid New Zealand work visa covering the employment duration.
Application deadline: 11:59 pm Wednesday, 26 August 2026 (applications may close early)
Recruitment agencies: Not engaged for this role.
Application process: Applications must be submitted online including CV and cover letter; emailed applications or applicants not shortlisted will not receive feedback.
Contact for enquiries: Aleena Antony, Senior Recruitment Advisor (email provided).