Senior AdvisorMinistry of Business, Innovation and Employment NZ • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand

Senior Advisor

Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment NZ • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand

18 hours ago

Job description

Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment NZ – Wellington, North Island

About the Role

The Senior Advisor plays a key role in supporting Research Funding New Zealand (RFNZ) to deliver its statutory and advisory functions. Acting as a trusted advisor to the RFNZ Chair and Board, you'll provide expert governance and policy advice on research investment decisions across an $800m funding portfolio.

Working closely with the Advisor and collaborating with the Science System Investment and Performance (SSIP) branch and Science Policy teams, you'll ensure RFNZ receives clear, timely, and defensible advice to enable transparent, high‑quality decision‑making. This role also anticipates and resolves governance issues, drives improvements, and ensures RFNZ decisions are effectively implemented.

Responsibilities

Play a pivotal role in shaping New Zealand's research investment decisions by providing expert governance and policy advice to an independent board managing the bulk of the government's science research funds.
Collaborate across science policy and investment teams to deliver clear, timely, and sound advice that enables RFNZ to make transparent, high‑quality decision‑making, and strengthens governance systems.
Lead improvements in governance processes, anticipate and resolve issues, and ensure RFNZ's decisions and recommendations are implemented effectively to support the science and innovation system.
Wellington based permanent role with a salary range of between $118k to $143k + kiwisaver and Wellness benefits.

Skills and Experience Required

In‑depth understanding of research funding processes, covering policy, funding mechanisms, decision‑making, and performance frameworks.

Sound grasp of governance principles and practices, with experience applying them in complex environments.

Comprehensive knowledge of government processes and public sector management practices.

Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build rapport quickly, influence outcomes, and develop long‑term relationships.

Comfortable working with ambiguity, able to adapt quickly and make sound decisions without having the full picture.

Strong strategic thinking and the ability to translate strategy into action.

Politically savvy, with the ability to navigate complex organisational environments effectively.

Proven ability to organise workflow, manage competing priorities, and deliver results.

Resilient under pressure, maintaining focus and quality in challenging situations.

Analytical and decisive, with the ability to interpret information and exercise sound judgment.

Must have legal right to live and work in NZ.

Benefits

Permanent Wellington‑based role

Salary range of $118k to $143k (plus kiwisaver and wellness benefits)

How to Apply

Click here to view a position description.

When you are ready to apply please send a CV and cover letter telling us why you’re the perfect fit for this role.

All applications must be submitted via our online process.

Applications close on 14th of December 2025.

Be careful – don’t provide your bank or credit card details when applying for jobs. Don’t transfer any money or complete suspicious online surveys. If you see something suspicious, report this job ad.

Email Matt Guy at

@mbie.govt.nz quoting ref MBIE / 18818 if you have any further questions.

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Senior Advisor • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand

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