Relationship Lead - System Pathways

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If you're a relationship-builder with a track record in complex public sector settings, this fixed-term role as Relationship Lead: System Pathways sits onsite in Wellington, runs to June 2028, and connects Corrections, MSD, Health and Oranga Tamariki to speed Survivors’ access to the Survivor Experiences Service. You’ll shape practical, survivor-centred pathways across agencies while prioritising Māori, Pacific Peoples, Disabled and Deaf survivors. Bring strong relationship-management and analytical skills, resilience in ambiguity, and a commitment to trauma-informed practice. Apply online by 5pm 31 August 2026; NZ work rights required; salary $109,697–$121,885; inquiries to Stephen Turnock.

About Us | Mō mātou    

The Survivor Experiences Service provides a safe, supportive and confidential space for 
Survivors of abuse in care to share their experiences as part of their healing journey. The Service also supports Survivors to access and understand their care records, helping to fill gaps in personal histories and provide greater understanding of past experiences.

Hosted by Te Tari Taiwhenua (Department of Internal Affairs) and overseen by an independent board, the Service brings together survivor experiences to deepen understanding of abuse in care and inform efforts to prevent future harm. Survivors may also be connected with other support services, ensuring they receive the assistance they need throughout their journey.

The role | Te tūnga 

This role is focused on improving how Survivors’ access and move through the Survivor Experiences Service by strengthening pathways across government agencies. Working with organisations such as Corrections, MSD, Health and Oranga Tamariki, you'll identify opportunities to reduce barriers, improve coordination and make it easier for Survivors to access the support they need.

You'll build strong relationships across government, influencing change at both operational and strategic levels to improve processes and service delivery. Working collaboratively with internal teams and external partners, you'll help create clearer, more consistent pathways that support Survivors through every stage of their journey, particularly Māori, Pacific Peoples, Disabled and Deaf Survivors.

This opportunity is Fixed Term to June 2028.

What you bring | Nōu te rourou

• Experience working across complex government or public sector environments to improve services, systems or processes
• Strong relationship management and influencing skills, with the ability to collaborate across agencies and engage stakeholders at all levels
• An understanding of the needs of Māori, Pacific Peoples, Disabled and Deaf communities, with a commitment to culturally responsive and accessible practice 
• The ability to analyse complex issues, identify barriers and develop practical, survivor-focused solutions
• Strong judgement, resilience and the ability to navigate ambiguity while maintaining momentum and achieving outcomes 
• A commitment to trauma-informed, survivor-centred practice and improving experiences for Survivors

For you | Mōu 

At the Department of Internal Affairs, we are committed to offering a collaborative and innovative culture where your perspective and ideas will be welcomed. We want our people to thrive within a culture of best practice, while being able to set and achieve goals and being encouraged to challenge the status quo.  

To learn more about the diverse, important mahi we do at the Department and see why we're a great place to work check out our website https://www.dia.govt.nz/ 

Benefits - About Internal Affairs - Careers with us - Benefits - dia.govt.nz 

The appointing range for this role is $109,697 – $121,885. 

To review the full job description, please click here. 

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono 

We are unable to accept applications via email. Please click the apply button to submit your application. 

We're committed to ensuring our application process is accessible to everyone. Please let us know if there is any support, we can provide to ensure the process is accessible to you.  

Applications for this role close 5pm, Monday 31 August 2026.  Please also note that you must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this role. 

If you have any questions, please email Stephen Turnock - [email protected]