Senior Advisor, National Security and Resilience Policy at Department of the Prime Minister & Cabinet, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Senior Policy Advisor, National Security Strategy & Policy

National Security & Resilience Group, DPMC

Wellington-based | Permanent, Full-time role

Are you an experienced policy professional interested in leading work on high-impact policy issues the centre of government? This is your chance to join the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) and help shape New Zealand’s long-term security and resilience, and collaborate with top minds across government and internationally.

Senior Policy Advisors play an important role in the National Security and Resilience Group’s ability to provide system leadership to ensure that as a country, we anticipate, endure, adapt, and thrive in the face of serious hazards and national security threats. This role offers the opportunity to make a real impact where it matters most for New Zealand’s communities and economy.

About the Role | Mō tēnei tūranga mahi 

This is an exciting role at the heart of central government. You’ll work in a collaborative environment with agencies across the public service.

Successful applicants will lead the delivery of policy projects. They will shape advice to senior leaders, Chief Executive-level governance boards, and Ministers; support strategic system leadership and delivery of the cross-government work programme; coordinate and conduct outreach and engagement; and engage in a range of international fora.

We are looking to fill two permanent roles within the National Security Policy and Coordination Directorate. In this role, you will:

• Lead or co-lead significant policy workstreams, ensuring high-quality advice.
• Prepare strategy and policy papers, briefings, internal reports, and Ministerial material to support decision-making.
• Conduct research, analysis, and synthesise insights to support informed advice, drawing on information from a range of diverse sources across government, society, and internationally.
• Support the development and passage of legislation and regulations.
• Monitor domestic and international developments in national security policy.
• Represent DPMC in inter-agency projects, meetings, and consultations across the national security and resilience systems.
• Engage with international partners to share information and best practice, and collaborate on policy issues.
• Assist in planning, coordinating, and supporting high level attendance at international meetings and engagements.
• Mentor and support junior policy advisors, contributing to the development of team capability.

About You – Mōu Anō
To succeed in this role, you will bring:

• A tertiary degree in a relevant field such as public policy, economics, law, international relations, security studies, political science, etc.
• At least 4 years’ work experience, ideally in a policy role.
• Proven track record of providing timely, high-quality policy advice.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong policy research and analysis capability, with the ability to interpret complex information.
• Ability to build relationships across a wide array of stakeholders.
• A proven ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced, and often ambiguous environment.
• Enthusiasm, diligence, and curiosity.
• Experience working in cross-agency or multi-stakeholder contexts is an advantage.
• Exposure to issues relating to national security and resilience is desirable but not necessary.

If you're driven by a desire to help New Zealand proactively improve our ability to endure, adapt and thrive in the face serious hazards and national security threats, thrive on strategic challenges, and aspire to make a significant impact at the heart of government, we want you on the team.

What we offer | Ta matou e tuku

We are looking to appoint in the range of $111,258 - $121,489 inclusive of KiwiSaver contribution. The final salary will be determined based on the skills and experience you bring to the position. We are committed to offering a competitive remuneration package that reflects the critical nature of this role and the value you will bring to our team.

We pride ourselves on the quality of our staff and understand the importance of fostering a working environment where excellence is recognised and where staff are encouraged to develop their own talents and potential.

Why Join Us? | Nā te aha i Tūhono Mai Ai Ki a Mātou?

Working at DPMC means being at the heart of some of the most significant and impactful work in Aotearoa New Zealand. This role presents an opportunity to lead at the system level and contribute to the security and well-being of New Zealanders, working with smart and motivated people in an environment that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence. You'll be part of a high-performing organisation that prioritises professional development.

Security Requirements | Ngā Whakaritenga Haumarutanga

You must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Special security clearance. Normally to obtain this level of clearance you must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a Resident class visa. Alternatively, you must have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia with a 15-year checkable background. To find out more check your eligibility for a TOP SECRET SPECIAL (TSS) security clearance.

How to Apply – Me pēhea te tono:
A full job description is available below. If this role is of interest, please click 'Apply now' and submit your tailored Cover Letter and CV. All applications must be made online. The closing date for this role is  Wednesday 11 February 2026.