Director, National Security Policy & Coordination at Department of the Prime Minister & Cabinet, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Wellington | Permanent Full-time

Are you ready to lead New Zealand’s national security efforts in a rapidly evolving global environment? The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) is seeking an exceptional leader to take on the pivotal role of Director, National Security Policy and Coordination. This is your opportunity to shape policies that safeguard New Zealand’s security, resilience, and strategic influence, whilst representing our nation’s interests.

Help shape New Zealand’s ability to thrive in the face of future challenges.

The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) works at the heart of government, providing advice and coordination to support the Prime Minister and Cabinet’s decision-making. The National Security and Resilience (NSR) Group leads and strengthens New Zealand’s National Resilience System. We work to ensure New Zealand is prepared for, can respond to, and recover from national security risks and resilience challenges. Our work protects what matters most for our people and our future.

What we’re looking for:

As Director, National Security Policy and Coordination, you will drive system-wide coordination across government, working closely with senior leaders, security partners, and international allies, particularly within the Five Eyes community. You will lead the development and integration of strategic, evidence-based policy advice on complex and sensitive national security issues, ensuring New Zealand’s policy positions are coherent, globally informed, and aligned with national priorities.

Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and oversee cohesive, future-focused national security strategies that address evolving threats such as cybersecurity, terrorism, foreign interference, and geopolitical instability.
• Policy Advice: Provide timely, actionable advice to the Prime Minister, Ministers, and senior officials, translating complex intelligence and security issues into practical recommendations.
• International Representation: Represent New Zealand at high-level forums, negotiations, and initiatives, advancing national security objectives and fostering trusted partnerships with key allies and multilateral organisations.
• System Coordination: Lead cross-agency alignment on national security challenges, integrating policy, operational, and intelligence functions for maximum impact.
• Team Leadership: Inspire, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of managers and advisors, fostering a collaborative and adaptive culture.

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

• Proven senior leadership experience in national security, international relations, or a closely related policy field, with the ability to lead complex, high-impact programmes.
• A track record of leading, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams.
• Strong strategic thinking and policy expertise, with the ability to anticipate emerging threats and translate complex issues into actionable advice.
• Experience working across government and with international partners, including Five Eyes or equivalent intelligence and security communities, building trusted relationships and influencing outcomes.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, capable of engaging effectively with Ministers, senior officials, and international counterparts.
• Demonstrated political acumen, sound judgement, and integrity in navigating sensitive, high-stakes national and international policy contexts.

Remuneration - The midpoint for this role is $262,465, with the final salary to 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.

About The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet | Te Tari o te Pirimia me te Rūnanga Kāwanatanga

The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) supports the government of the day by leading, advising, stewarding and delivering activities across the public sector, and by providing dedicated advice and support to the Governor-General, Prime Minister and portfolio Ministers.

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 New Zealand. This is a rare opportunity to make a real impact on how New Zealand prepares for and responds to the challenges of tomorrow. You will be working at the centre of government on issues that matter to every New Zealander—building resilience, safeguarding wellbeing, and ensuring our nation is prepared to adapt and thrive.

How to Apply – Me pēhea te tono:
If you are a visionary leader with the expertise, drive, and commitment to make a difference, we want to hear from you. Join us in shaping New Zealand’s national security landscape and strengthening our resilience in an ever-changing world please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and what you would bring to the role. All applications must be made online. The closing date for this role is Sunday 22 February 2026. 

Please note we are only able to consider candidates that have the current right to work in NZ.