Principal Advisor - Operational Regulatory Policy

Our vision : Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Turoa The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa.

When nature thrives, we all thrive.

Ko ta Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora ano hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa.

He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.

• Conservation House, Wellington based
• Full-time, Permanent
• Salary $109,160- $138,33

We're looking for an experienced Principal Advisor to lead a developing function that will drive a significant change in how we design regulatory systems and deliver the supporting operational policy across DOC.

This is a great opportunity to influence the depth, quality, and maturity of operational policy advice in a high-profile, high-impact environment.

This is your chance to be part of a multi-year improvement programme to lift the overall performance of DOC's regulatory system - shaping how we enable access to and enjoyment of conservation while protecting what matters most.

You'll work in a dynamic, supportive environment where your leadership will make a real difference.

Mo te turanga | About the role This is a unique leadership role focused on building a strong, nationally consistent operational policy practice to conservation regulation.

You'll provide thought leadership to an enthusiastic team of 10, providing technical leadership, coaching, and mentoring to lift capability and confidence of the regulatory system.

Your work will span multiple work areas - commercial, legal, and operational - and touch every part of the business.

You'll be instrumental in :

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experience We're looking for a pragmatic professional with deep expertise in regulatory environments and an understanding of how government works.

You'll be commercially savvy, intellectually curious, and confident engaging with iwi, stakeholders, and senior leaders.

You'll also bring :

Given the collaborative nature of the role, you will be office-present most days to enable cross functional engagement.

We do offer flexible working arrangements.

Click here for the position description.He aha nga painga mou?

| What's in it for you?

DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow.

You can learn more about what we offer here.

Tonoa inaianei | Apply now Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai.

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

The salary range for this position is $109,160- $138,333 with the starting salary of the successful applicant based on their relevant skills and experience.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory - this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.

Ra whakakapi | Applications close at 11 : 59 pm Monday 22 September.

Me he patai ano, whakapa mai | For further enquiries, please contact Arna Litchfield at

Nga ahuatanga kei a matou | What's in it for you?

DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow.

We're working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default.

Submit a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai with your preference.

You can learn more about what we offer here / .

If you require any accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory - this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.