Senior or Principal Policy Analyst

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Senior or Principal Policy Analyst at the Department of Internal Affairs places you at the centre of government advising Ministers on Crown entity governance, performance and appointments, and preparing briefings in Wellington onsite. Whether you’re a seasoned Senior Analyst or a Principal Analyst seeking broader impact, indicate your preferred level in your application. Key requirements include governance or monitoring advice in the public sector, strong analytical judgment, and excellent written and verbal communication, plus the ability to manage Ministers’ offices and competing priorities to tight deadlines; knowledge of Crown entity governance is advantageous. Apply online by 6 August 2026; NZ work rights required, for more information contact Jeremy Cauchi. DIA values collaboration, innovation and challenging the status quo.

Senior or Principal Policy Analyst opportunity 

About Us | Mō mātou    

The Policy and Te Tiriti | He Pou Rarama branch provides strategic policy leadership across a diverse portfolio that supports effective government and strong public sector outcomes. We work closely with Ministers, Crown entities and public sector organisations to provide high-quality advice that shapes decisions and strengthens governance across New Zealand.

The role | Te tūnga   

Working at the centre of government, you'll advise Ministers on Crown entity governance, performance, and appointments, helping ensure public organisations are led by capable people and delivering for New Zealanders. You'll prepare briefings and Cabinet papers, manage appointments processes, and build strong relationships across government on high-profile issues. It's a varied, influential role with plenty of opportunity to grow your expertise and make a real difference.

Whether you're an experienced Senior Analyst ready for your next challenge or a Principal Analyst looking to broaden your impact, we'd love to hear from you. Please indicate what level of role you would like to be considered for in your application. 

What you bring | Nōu te rourou 

• Experience providing high-quality governance or monitoring advice within the public sector. 
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with sound judgement and attention to detail. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including preparing briefings for senior decision-makers. 
• Proven ability to build productive relationships with Ministers' offices, senior stakeholders and cross-agency partners. 
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver quality work to tight deadlines. 
• An understanding of Crown entity governance, monitoring or public sector appointments would be an advantage.

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

To review the full job description for the Senior Policy role please click here and for the Principal Policy role 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 6 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.

For more information on the role please contact Jeremy Cauchi, Manager Monitoring and Appointments at [email protected].