Advisor, Policy at Ministry for Regulation, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Undertake policy work that lifts regulatory quality across government

• Collaborate in an environment that values your expertise and ideas

• Join a small, agile central agency with a big mission

About us:

The Ministry for Regulation is a small government agency with a big job to do.

We're focused on lifting quality across all regulatory systems and supporting agencies with regulatory responsibilities to align with good practice. We want it to be easier for businesses to innovate, grow and comply, while still ensuring the benefits from regulation that we take for granted won't change.

We are a small group of dedicated professionals, working in a 'can do' environment.

About the Role:

We are seeking a permanent full-time Advisor, Policy to join our Regulatory Stewardship team within the Policy Group, based in central Wellington.

In this role, you'll help shape high‑quality advice that supports leaders to make informed, future‑focused decisions. You'll work on a broad range of interesting and meaningful issues, contributing to policy that improves outcomes for New Zealanders. The role offers the chance to build strong, transferable skills and knowledge that will serve you well throughout your policy career.

The Policy Group's core functions include:

• Overseeing the regulatory management system and providing strategic coordination

• Leading regulatory stewardship work across the public sector

• Managing the regulatory impact analysis system

• Providing second‑opinion advice on significant regulatory proposals across government.

What you'll be doing:

The focus of your work will evolve over time in line with Ministry and Ministerial priorities, but you can expect to:

• Provide clear, well‑reasoned policy advice on complex, cross‑cutting issues that span multiple regulatory systems

• Support the operation of the Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) system

• Prepare briefings, papers, and recommendations for senior leaders

• Support the development and implementation of policy frameworks, guidance, and processes

• Stay aware of emerging trends and best practice to strengthen our policy approach

• Support agencies in their regulatory stewardship responsibilities.

As part of the wider Policy group, you'll have opportunities to contribute across the Ministry. You'll work in a complex, dynamic environment that requires flexibility, sound judgement, and the ability to manage both fast‑paced and longer‑term work while building effective relationships.

What you'll bring:

• A relevant tertiary qualification (or equivalent government experience), with at least 12 months in a policy or relevant public service role

• Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate complex information into practical, actionable advice

• Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships and collaborate effectively

• Sound judgement, curiosity, and a proactive approach

• Clear and effective communication skills, both written and verbal

• An understanding of, and commitment to, the impact regulation has on the lives of New Zealander.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to deepen your understanding of regulation, regulatory policy processes, machinery of government, and public sector management

• A collaborative and supportive team where your expertise is valued and your ideas can have real impact

• Growth in transferable skills and knowledge that will support your long‑term policy career

• Flexible working, ongoing development, and the chance to contribute to work that truly matters.

Please see the attached job description here: Advisor, Policy

Salary range: $79,078 – $104,887 dependent on skills and experience.

How to apply:

Please click the 'Apply for this job' button and provide all the required information.

Applications close on Sunday, 25 January 2026.

For any questions, please contact: people@regulation.govt.nz