Senior Advisor, Strategic Crisis Management

OverviewSenior Advisor, Strategic Crisis Management at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, New Zealand.

Wellington-based | Permanent, Full-time role.About The DepartmentThe Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) supports the government of the day by leading, advising, stewarding and delivering activities across the public sector, and by providing dedicated advice and support to the Governor-General, Prime Minister and portfolio Ministers.About The RoleLooking for a role where your work really makes a difference?

As a Senior Advisor in DPMC\'s Strategic Crisis Management Directorate (SCMD), you\'ll help strengthen New Zealand\'s ability to prepare for, manage, and respond to significant crisis events.

You\'ll collaborate with senior officials and agencies across government, provide trusted strategic advice, and support initiatives that keep New Zealanders safe, secure, and resilient.

The SCMD leads, coordinates and supports the all-of-government Officials\' Committee for Domestic and External Security Coordination (ODESC) system of strategic crisis management to deliver a secure and resilient New Zealand.

The ODESC system is used for all hazards, threats and risks, and is designed to support central government with respect to emerging strategic risks and in the response to crisis events.ResponsibilitiesSupporting ODESC system activations with thought leadership and good judgement, by providing secretariat support to ensure agencies are coordinated across government to deliver a collective response to crisis events.Participating in the SCMD rotating 24 / 7 duty roster, providing timely advice and coordination support as required.Leading and supporting ODESC system readiness activities, including designing and delivering National Exercise Programme exercises and working with agencies to ensure their exercises strengthen preparedness for strategic crisis events.Driving cross-government initiatives by building, maintaining, and leveraging strong relationships with government agencies, local government, the academic community, and international partners.Providing high-quality advice - preparing clear, timely reports, briefings, and responses for senior officials, chief executives, and Ministers, including handling correspondence, OIA requests, and Parliamentary Questions.About YouExperience in a strategic advisory, policy, or operational role within the New Zealand public sector.An understanding of national security, hazard risk, strategic crisis management, emergency management, or related areas.The ability to think strategically and critically, identify emerging risks early, and develop clear, well-informed advice.Excellent communication skills, with the ability to express ideas simply and deliver compelling messages tailored to different audiences.A demonstrated understanding of, and commitment to, the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.Familiarity with the protocols and processes required when working with highly classified information.Strong relationship-building skills and, ideally, an established network across government agencies within the ODESC system.Knowledge of the machinery of government and experience supporting governance boards, including preparing papers, taking minutes, and working with multiple stakeholders.Security RequirementsNormally you must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a Resident class visa.

Alternatively, you must have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia with a 15 year checkable background.

To find out more check your eligibility for a TOP SECRET SPECIAL security clearance.How To ApplyA full job description is available below.

If this role is of interest, please click \'Apply now\' and submit your tailored Cover Letter and CV.

All applications must be made online.

The closing date for this role is 8pm Sunday 21 September 2025.

For any questions please contact Marika Hughes on

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