Senior Adviser

Mo te tunga | About the role

The Senior Adviser plays a key role in supporting the delivery of large, multi-year service improvement initiatives within the Pathways and Services Portfolio at Ara Poutama Aotearoa.

This is a dynamic advisory role focused on providing timely, accurate advice and analysis that contributes to better rehabilitation and reintegration outcomes for the people we serve.

Reporting to the Portfolio Manager, Pathways and Services Portfolio, you will contribute to commissioned work by analysing data to understand complex problems, identifying risks, and monitoring progress across key initiatives.

You will provide clear, forward-looking advice to senior leaders, support strategic alignment across the organisation, and help shape the direction of projects to improve our service delivery system.

This role requires a confident communicator who can lead workshops, engage stakeholders, and respond to complex issues with clarity and insight.

You will work closely with teams across the Department to influence positive change and ensure that every decision is informed, connected, and people-centred.

If you're motivated by meaningful work and enjoy solving complex problems in a collaborative environment, this is a chance to make a real impact.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experience

To be successful in this role, you will bring :

• Strong communication and relationship skills, with the ability to influence and engage across a wide range of stakeholders.
• Proven analytical and strategic thinking, with experience interpreting data and developing practical, evidence-based advice.
• Confidence working in complex, fast-paced environments, with the ability to adapt and take initiative.
• Experience supporting senior leaders through clear reporting, risk analysis, and strategic insight.
• Sound judgement and attention to detail.
• Experience responding to OIA and Parliamentary requests is desirable.

Nga painga | The benefits

The midpoint of the salary range is $119,013 per annum and the full range (85%–120%) is $101,162 – $142,186 per annum.

Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

This is a great opportunity to contribute to meaningful change in a purpose-led organisation.

You'll be part of a collaborative team that values integrity, service, and continuous improvement.

We offer :

• A role with visibility across strategic programmes and senior leadership.
• Opportunities to shape advice that informs decision-making and drives improvement.
• A supportive environment focused on development and continuous learning.
• Strong connections across operational and enabling teams.

Mo matou | About us

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Maori in correctional facilities.

As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whanau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hokai Rangi strategy.

We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve.

We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

Tono inaianei | Apply Now

To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link.

All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

Applications close on : Sunday, 21st September

If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact

• , or visit careers.corrections.govt.nz.