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

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Principal Policy Advisor (x3), National Security and Resilience Policy

National Security and Resilience Group, DPMC

Wellington-based | Full-time

Shape the Future of New Zealand’s National Resilience

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. 

Principal 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. These roles offer the opportunity to make a real impact where it matters most for New Zealand’s communities and economy.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga mahi 

These are exciting roles at the heart of central government. You’ll work in a collaborative environment with agencies across the public service.

Principal advisors provide policy leadership within their own teams and across the broader group. Successful applicants will lead the delivery of policy projects. They will provide 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 three permanent roles across the National Security and Resilience Group.

• The National Security Policy and Coordination Directorate (1 permanent) provides strategic system leadership on the National Security Strategy, national security legislation, core national security issues, and intelligence coordination. Teams advise the National Security Board and the Prime Minister / Minister for National Security and Intelligence, and lead international engagement across a range of national security system issues.
• The National Resilience Policy (2 permanent) team provides system leadership for national resilience – driving priority initiatives and ensuring a strategic, cohesive approach to proactively manage serious hazards and national security threats that could otherwise derail the country. The team advises the National Resilience Board and the Prime Minister, sets strategic direction and priorities for the national resilience system, drives whole-of-government resilience policy work, leads system improvement and innovation, and provides stewardship of the institutional frameworks and governance arrangements.

Principal advisors on both teams lead complex policy initiatives across multiple agencies and with diverse stakeholders. They also coordinate, integrate and shape work led out of other agencies, relying on influence and strong relationships to drive outcomes.

These roles are full-time and Wellington-based.

About You | Ō pūmanawa 

The roles are suited for experienced policy professionals with both breadth and depth of experience in complex strategic thinking and the machinery of government. 

As part of high-performing and collaborative teams, you’ll contribute to the work by helping to set the strategic direction and drive the work programme, including leading complex policy projects.

The Policy Project's Policy Skills Framework describes the knowledge, skills and behaviours required of NSRG’s policy staff. Principal Advisors are expected to demonstrate these at the leading level.

For detailed descriptors, refer to the full Policy Skills Framework here.

To be successful, you will bring with you:

• Expertise in public sector policy development processes and products, demonstrating exemplary policy fundamentals.
• Advanced strategic and systems-thinking skills, with the ability to navigate complex policy environments.
• Proven ability to synthesise complex data, intelligence, and risk information into clear, actionable strategic advice.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including drafting for Ministers and senior stakeholders.
• Exceptional engagement and relationship management skills, and a demonstrated ability to build relationships across a wide array of stakeholders and to influence and engage others within and outside the public sector.
• Demonstrated commitment to setting ambitious and practical goals and delivering high-quality, impactful products.
• Strong organisational insight and cultural competence, with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Demonstrated dedication to mentoring, coaching, and inclusive leadership.
• Strong public sector foundations, including an understanding of the obligations of the Crown under the Treaty of Waitangi and expectations of Māori related to your work.

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 $150,640 - $164,492 inclusive of KiwiSaver contribution.

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. These roles present an opportunity to lead and contribute to the security and wellbeing 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 attached. If you would like to be considered for one of these roles, please submit your CV and cover letter via the link provided. Applications close at  on Wednesday, 11 February 2026. 

If you have questions about the roles, please contact Greg Mitchell-Kouttab (Greg.Mitchell-Kouttab@dpmc.govt.nz) .