Senior Advisor, Operational Practice and Funding

Role Overview

This permanent position in the Operational Practice team within the School Property division is based at the National Office in Wellington, New Zealand. The Senior Advisor will spearhead the design and execution of operational practices, resources, training, and tools to support implementation of the Property Strategy 2030 (Te Rautaki Rawa Kura).

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the deployment of policies, strategies, and training programs while critically evaluating proposals to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Create clear and concise practice guidance and communications aimed at staff.
• Facilitate discussions to gather and balance diverse feedback for process improvements.
• Support data analysis and reporting on business information, pinpointing trends and suggesting strategies to address challenges or seize opportunities.
• Provide frontline insights and contribute to major projects within School Property and the wider Ministry, promoting integration and consistency.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be a dynamic team player with excellent organizational skills, adept at managing multiple priorities with attention to detail. They should be able to critically assess their work ensuring high-quality outcomes benefiting frontline staff, schools, and students. A willingness to learn about School Property and collaborate across various internal and external stakeholder groups is essential.

Required Experience and Skills

• Proven experience at a senior advisory level.
• Demonstrated expertise in project management and executing process and practice improvements.
• Ability to deliver projects within deadlines while coordinating across business groups.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the capacity to build and maintain relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including presenting complex matters succinctly.
• Experience in developing and facilitating training sessions.
• Commitment to uphold the standards of Integrity and Conduct in the Public Service.

About the Team and Organisation

The School Property group oversees one of New Zealand's largest property portfolios, comprising more than 2,100 state primary and secondary schools and over 8,000 hectares of land valued at $33.5 billion. The team manages engagement with schools, asset management, capital works, investment planning, and overall portfolio management. The group is focused on delivering cost-effective property solutions that meet schools' needs amidst high demand for infrastructure upgrades and expansions.

In response to government reforms following an independent Ministerial Inquiry, the group is led by a Chief Executive for School Property who reports directly to the Minister for Education, with ongoing improvement initiatives underway to enhance planning and delivery outcomes.

Salary and Benefits

The annual salary for this role ranges between NZD 100,296 and NZD 121,490 plus KiwiSaver contributions. The final salary appointment will reflect the candidate’s skills and experience.

Additional Information

Applications close at midnight on Tuesday, 28th July 2026. Candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter outlining their values, motivations, strengths, and unique perspectives, along with a resume. Accommodations can be provided during the recruitment process upon request to support participation.