Senior National Programmes Advisor (12-month fixed term) at Department of Conservation, Flexible

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.

He angitūtanga | About the role

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Senior National Programmes Advisor to join our team in Conservation House, Wellington. This role is pivotal in supporting nationally led biodiversity programmes, particularly the National Predator Control Programme.

In this role, you will oversee the coordination and quality of official correspondence associated with national programmes. You will deliver high-quality specialist advice and support to address Ministerial and Official Information Act (OIA) requests and will coordinate formal responses to sensitive or controversial issues.  You'll do this by supporting the managers of several diverse national programmes to ensure excellent official communication on multiple complex issues.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to support DOC's national biodiversity programmes, which contribute to the sustainability of New Zealand's natural environment. You will work closely with senior leadership and play a pivotal role in delivering conservation outcomes in accordance with the Aotearoa NZ Biodiversity Strategy and the national Predator Free 2050 (PF2050) Strategy.

Key responsibilities:

• Support national programmes by coordinating official correspondence responses.
• Engage with stakeholders, create detailed implementation plans, and monitor progress to ensure very high-quality official correspondence standards.
• Review and enhance materials for the Minister and other stakeholders, manage sensitive issues, and ensure high standards of communication.
• Define task parameters, identify resource needs, and collaborate with other units to deliver outcomes that meet established standards.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:

• Proven experience in communication or biodiversity programmes, preferably within an operational or conservation context.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate complex information into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with experience in managing diverse relationships and facilitating collaboration.
• Familiarity with political processes and the ability to navigate sensitive issues with discretion and professionalism.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on clarity and effectiveness.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What's in it for you?

DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow.  We're working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default.  You can learn more about what we offer here.

Tono ināianei | Apply now

Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted.

If you require any accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.

The salary range for this position is $92,450 to $116,985 with the starting salary of the successful applicant based on their relevant skills and experience.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory – this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.

Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role. 

Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday 21 May 2025.

Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, contact Peter Morton, pmorton@doc.govt.nz

Taupānga | Job reference: DOC/1852682.