Director Strategic Operations

About Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children

At Oranga Tamariki, our vision is for all tamariki (children) to be safe, loved, and nurtured by whānau, hapū, and iwi, with support from thriving communities. We are committed to placing tamariki and rangatahi (young people) at the centre of our work, guided by values such as putting tamariki first, embracing aroha (love), respecting mana (dignity), acting with integrity, valuing whakapapa (genealogy), and recognising Oranga (wellbeing) as an ongoing journey. We partner with hapū, iwi, and Māori organisations to develop meaningful solutions for children in need and strive to make New Zealand the best place in the world for every child.

Role Overview

As Director Strategic Operations, reporting directly to the National Commissioner, you will play a key role in leading strategic delivery and operational leadership. Your responsibilities will include offering expert strategic advice, leading major initiatives and improvement programmes, driving performance and continuous improvement, managing complex operational and stakeholder issues, and collaborating with internal teams, government agencies, iwi, Māori partners, and community organisations. You will champion effective change management to embed improvements within daily operations, and use data and systemic insights to enhance service delivery and performance across Aotearoa.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver high-level strategic counsel to the National Commissioner.
• Lead and coordinate significant operational responses, initiatives, and enhancement programmes.
• Drive performance assurance, analytical functions, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Handle complex and high-profile operational and stakeholder challenges.
• Collaborate and influence across Oranga Tamariki, government agencies, iwi, Māori groups, and the broader community sector.
• Lead change initiatives ensuring sustainable integration into day-to-day operations.
• Leverage data, insights, and systemic thinking to identify and implement performance and service improvements.

Person Specification

• Extensive senior leadership experience within the public sector, social services, or comparably complex environments.
• Proven success in overseeing large-scale operational transformation and improvement projects.
• Experience with performance management, risk oversight, governance, and business planning.
• Superior stakeholder engagement and relationship-building abilities.
• Strong analytical skills capable of simplifying complex data into actionable solutions.
• In-depth knowledge of governmental processes, priorities, and systems.
• Ability to influence leaders and establish trusted connections across diverse stakeholder groups.

Benefits and Culture

Oranga Tamariki offers a step-based remuneration package with annual progression based on experience and tenure. You will be part of a vibrant, supportive team that encourages flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on wellbeing. The organisation prioritises professional development and training for career growth. We embrace diversity, inclusivity, and respect in our workplace culture. This role provides a unique opportunity to apply your leadership talents toward improving the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their CV along with a compelling cover letter that explains your suitability for the role, motivation for applying, why you want to work with Oranga Tamariki, and what you bring to the position. Current Oranga Tamariki employees must use their official email accounts for application submissions. For queries regarding this role, contact details are available upon request. Applications close at midnight on Thursday 23rd July 2026.

Additional Information

Applicants should familiarize themselves with the Oranga Tamariki Code of Conduct, which sets expectations regarding workplace behaviour, including maintaining a workplace free from the influence of drugs and alcohol.