Principal Advisor Government Response

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Take on the Principal Advisor role at the Ministry of Health in Wellington to lead the Government Response to the Royal Commission into COVID-19, steering cross‑agency delivery, governance and senior stakeholder engagement. In this fixed term position until 25 June 2027 you will develop work plans, establish governance arrangements, lead internal and external meetings, allocate resources, track deliverables, manage risk, and brief ELT, the Director‑General and Ministers as required. The ideal candidate brings Principal Advisor level experience, exceptional organisational and programme management skills, the ability to keep work moving under pressure, and a proven track record in high‑profile environments. To apply, tailor your CV and a concise covering letter to highlight cross‑agency collaboration and governance work, confirm you are Wellington‑based with full‑time rights, and apply via the Careers Website by 10 September; include measurable outcomes and relevant examples.

• Relationship builder with programme experience

• Be at the forefront of implementing a major cross-agency government response

• Fixed Term until 25 June 2027 | Wellington Based

• Midpoint of $145,198, dependent on experience

What you’ll do - Ko tōu ake mahi

This Principal Advisor role is responsible for leading the implementation of the Government Response to the Royal Commission of Inquiry into COVID-19, ensuring successful delivery of key Ministry priorities.

In this role you will provide expert advice to senior leaders, Ministers, and governance groups, driving programme performance, overseeing complex projects and workstreams, and influencing decisions across the Ministry and wider health sector.

This is a high-profile opportunity to put your Programme Management and organisational skills to use, while building strong stakeholder relationships, and leading with a cross-agency focus.

• Develop work plans

• Draft and establish governance arrangements

• Lead internal project team meetings

• Convene external AoG meetings

• Ensure appropriate resource assigned to tasks

• Measure that deliverables are on track, and manage and mitigate risks

• Establish regular reporting processes

• Brief ELT, Director-General and Minister as required

What you’ll bring - Ko ngā pūkenga ōu

• Experience held to Principal Advisor level

• Excellent organisational and programme management skills

• ability to keep things moving, tracked and reported is essential.

• Calm under pressure, working collaboratively and collegially

• Previous examples of experience working in a high profile, fast-paced work area

About the Ministry

As the Government's lead advisor on health, we help shape the future of New Zealand's health system through policy, regulation and monitoring. Join a team that makes a real difference to the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders while working in a supportive, inclusive environment that values wellbeing, growth and development.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to an accessible and respectful recruitment process.

How to apply  - Me pēhea te tono mai

Applications close midnight Thursday 10 September. 

Please note that to be eligible for this position, you must be based in Wellington and have full time working rights, for the duration of this contract. 

We are reviewing applications as they come in and interviews may take place during the advertising period. Please note if we receive a high number of applications this job may close prior to the closing date.

Click here to view the position description. Please follow the online process at our Careers Website to apply. Please ensure you upload a CV and covering letter with all applications. If you have any questions, email the recruitment team at [email protected].