Principal Policy Advisors | Kaitohutohu Kaupapahere Mātāmua at Statistics NZ, Wellington
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
This is a standout opportunity to lead complex policy work, mentor others, and influence system-wide change in a space that's growing in importance and visibility.
- Great team culture and exciting work programme
- Contribute to meaningful work focused on the data system in Aotearoa New Zealand
- Wellington based role with flexibility.
We’re growing our policy team and looking for two Principal Advisors to join us. Whether you're seeking a permanent role, fixed-term opportunity, part-time hours, or an interagency secondment. We’d love to hear from you.
The role | Te tūnga
This is an exceptional opportunity for experienced policy professionals to help shape the future of New Zealand’s data system. You’ll be working at the heart of government, providing expert strategic advice on how data can be used more effectively to improve outcomes for Aotearoa. We have one permanent position and one fixed term position until end of May 2026.
Reporting to the Senior Manager – Policy, within the Office of the Chief Executive, the policy team looks across the data and statistics system to identify opportunities and potential areas for improvement. This includes work in the areas of:
supporting social investment through integrated data
strategic, long-term planning for the future of macroeconomics statistics
adapting to the digital era and meeting evolving customer needs
fostering trust and confidence in how data is used and protected.
To be successful in this role you'll need a solid track record and experience in leading, delivering on, and contributing to complex policy projects and proven experience providing high-quality reports.
What's in it for you? | Ngā hua ka riro ki a koe ?
At Stats NZ, we’re proud to foster a workplace where everyone feels welcome and valued. We celebrate diversity and are committed to equity, inclusion, and wellbeing. Stats NZ offers several benefits to support our kamahi, including:
- competitive salary of between $118,609 - $160,471 plus superannuation. Appointment into the role will be based on skills and experience
diverse strategic and tactical policy work supporting senior leaders, with opportunities to lead and front work
supportive management and a hardworking team
comfortable, modern offices in central Wellington
varied and important work for Stats NZ and Aotearoa's data future
access to employee-led social and community groups that help you connect and contribute.
What you bring | Nōu te rourou
To be successful in this role you'll need to be able to hit the ground running, with the agility to work across a range of complex subjects. You'll need:
a thorough understanding of public policy and the machinery of government
a proven track record in leading complex policy deliverables
ideally a minimum of seven years of experience in policy analysis and development
strong planning and coaching skills
the ability to effectively analyse information, provide context, and shape it into actionable policy insights
adept at identifying critical issues quickly and providing pragmatic solutions
expertise in crafting high-quality written reports with a strong emphasis on clarity and accuracy, ensuring that your reports meet the highest standards.
About us | Ko mātou
Tatauranga Aotearoa - Stats NZ is a Central Government employer of around 1300 people across Aotearoa. We provide data and statistics to support the decisions of Government, Māori and Iwi organisations, businesses, NGOs, and New Zealanders. Our work is About Aotearoa, for Aotearoa - data that improves lives today and for generations to come.
How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono
If this sounds like you, click on the Apply now button to be redirected to the application page on our careers site. The position description is located on the right-hand side of the page. Applications close at 11.55pm, Monday 17th November 2025.
We will be screening applications as we receive them to move swiftly to interview. You may be asked to complete a pre-interview screen via phone or video. Please let us know in your application if we need to make any specific accommodations during our process.
Please reach out to recruitment@stats.govt.nz if you have any questions.
You must have the right to live and work in Aotearoa New Zealand. Background and various pre-employment checks are part of our recruitment process.
Note to Recruitment Agencies: unsolicited CVs will not be accepted.
Ngā taipitopito tūranga mahi | Job details
| Employer: | Statistics NZ |
| Location: | Wellington |
| Position type: | Ongoing - Full Time |
| Category: | Policy & analysis |
| Date listed: | 05-Nov-2025 |
| Salary range: | |
| Closing date: | 17-Nov-2025 |
| Reference: | 16749 |
| Attachment: | No File Attached |
| File links: | Principal Policy Advisor - Role Description_April 2025.pdf |
| Website: | http://www.stats.govt.nz |
Note: You may be redirected to the employer's careers website.
