Kaihautu Strategy and Policy (Treaty)

About the Role

Join the Department of Conservation (DOC) as Kaihautū – Strategy & Policy (Treaty), a key leadership position focused on embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles throughout DOC's strategic approach and operations. Reporting to the Deputy Director-General, Iwi Strategy and Partnerships, you will oversee enterprise-wide Treaty strategy and policy, ensuring alignment with Section 4 of the Conservation Act and delivering meaningful conservation outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and direct DOC's overall Treaty strategy and policy framework.
• Integrate the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi into organizational strategy, planning, and execution.
• Provide expert interpretation of Section 4 of the Conservation Act and Treaty settlement commitments to inform decision-making.
• Lead the Treaty Operating Model and related policy initiatives to strengthen relationships with Treaty partners.
• Shape system-wide settings that reflect Treaty partner aspirations and long-term environmental objectives.
• Conduct strategic foresight, embed mātauranga Māori and tikanga into priorities and delivery methods.
• Ensure alignment among strategy, policy, and operational activities across DOC.
• Advise senior leaders and governance bodies on complex Treaty-related issues.
• Manage responses to system-wide challenges, including inquiries and reviews.
• Represent DOC in governmental and sector collaboration forums, maintaining partnerships with agencies such as Te Arawhiti and Te Puni Kōkiri.
• Lead and mentor senior policy advisors, enhancing team capabilities through coaching and collaborative learning.

Required Skills and Experience

• Extensive expertise in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Crown-Māori relationships, and associated policy frameworks.
• Strong knowledge of Section 4 of the Conservation Act and Treaty settlement agreements.
• Proven track record in formulating and implementing complex public sector strategies at an enterprise level.
• Ability to incorporate te ao Māori worldview and mātauranga Māori within organizational structures.
• Exceptional ability to influence across government, governance, and sector stakeholders effectively.
• Experience in leading system change, managing large programs, and developing high-performing teams.
• Integrity, sound judgement, and the capacity to navigate complexity with empathy and clarity.

Benefits

The DOC is dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture where all individuals can grow and succeed. The organisation embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion as fundamental values and strives to maintain a supportive workplace aligned with these principles.

Additional Information

• Location: Wellington, onsite role in the Greater Kapiti Area.
• Salary range: $175,200 to $251,850 annually, commensurate with experience and skills.
• Permanent employment status.
• Applicants must hold a valid New Zealand work visa covering the employment duration.
• DOC is not engaging recruitment agencies for this vacancy.
• Application deadline: 11:59 pm, Monday, 13 July 2026.
• For recruitment queries, contact Aleena Antony, Senior Recruitment Advisor (email provided upon request).