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Policy Manager - Fixed Term Position
Policy Manager - Fixed Term PositionMadison Recruitment • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
Policy Manager - Fixed Term Position

Policy Manager - Fixed Term Position

Madison Recruitment • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
10 days ago
Job description

Policy Manager – Permanent | Wellington

We’re looking for an experienced Policy Manager to lead a high‑performing team delivering strategic, high‑quality policy advice at the heart of government. This is an exciting opportunity to shape long‑term outcomes, lead meaningful work, and grow policy capability in a dynamic and fast‑paced environment.

About the role

  • Lead a skilled team responsible for developing and delivering high‑impact policy advice to senior leaders and Ministers.
  • Drive the delivery of a complex, forward‑looking policy work programme.
  • Coach and mentor policy staff, lifting capability and performance across the team.
  • Work in a matrixed environment where you’ll lead home teams and project‑based teams to deliver on organisational priorities.
  • Provide strategic oversight and ensure timely, well‑communicated, and actionable policy outputs.
  • Build strong relationships across government and manage key stakeholder and Ministerial engagement.

This is a senior role reporting to a tier‑two manager and working closely with internal leaders and cross‑agency partners.

What we’re looking for

  • Proven experience managing policy teams in a public sector environment.
  • A deep understanding of public policy development, including commissioning and quality assurance.
  • Excellent writing skills, particularly experience drafting advice for Ministers.
  • Strong people leadership skills, you’ll know how to get the best out of individuals and teams.
  • Ability to work under pressure, manage risks, and navigate complex policy issues.
  • A strong grasp of the machinery of government and current policy challenges.
  • A relevant tertiary qualification.
  • Why join us?

  • Influence policy that has long‑term impact
  • Lead meaningful and challenging work
  • Work with a highly capable and collaborative leadership team
  • Ready to lead impactful policy work in a senior leadership role? Apply now via SEEK with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability.

    Contact Cindy Barthel at for more information or a confidential discussion.

    Seniority level

    Mid‑Senior level

    Employment type

    Full‑time

    Job function

    Public Relations

    Industries

    Government Administration

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    Policy Manager • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand

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