Senior Policy Manager, Funding Policy
Join the Ministry of Education New Zealand to shape the future of education and achieve excellent outcomes. This is a 10‑month fixed‑term or secondment opportunity based in Wellington.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Funding Policy team within the Schools Policy group.
- Develop and lead multiple complex and sensitive cross‑Ministry policy projects or programmes to deliver on Ministerial priorities and the Ministry’s outcomes.
- Think strategically about how to achieve the policy goals of Government across the education sector.
- Drive the Ministry’s advice on all funding levers across the schooling system, including funding settings for State, charter, private, Kaupapa Māori and Māori medium schools, and international students.
- Work with teams across the Ministry – data analytics, operational delivery, and other policy dimensions – to create real, positive change for children and young people.
- Serve as a backfill for a manager seconded as a Private Secretary, maintaining continuity of leadership.
Qualifications
Proven policy management experience, with demonstrated ability to develop and lead high‑impact policy projects.Strong policy leadership capability and excellent relationship management skills.Ability to apply te Tiriti o Waitangi, understand and integrate Māori perspectives, and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori.Experience in a public‑sector policy management or advisory role with a people‑leadership background.Willingness to adhere to Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.Capacity to foster a positive, inclusive team culture and support team development.Strong internal relationships with Ministers and Ministers’ offices, enabling delivery of policy outcomes.Group & Team Context
The Schools Policy Group advises on Network & Infrastructure, Curriculum & Digital, School Funding, Quality Teaching & Learning, Governance, legislation and Accountability.Groups collaborate across the Ministry and central government agencies, providing Ministers with integrated, whole‑of‑system policy advice.The team works closely with iwi, hapū, hapori and Māori peak bodies to honour te Tiriti o Waitangi in policy development.Salary & Benefits
Salary range : $142,856 – $214,284 per annum, plus 3% kiwisaver. Successful candidates will receive a salary reflecting individual skills and experience.
Location & Employment Details
Location : Wellington, NZEmployment type : Fixed TermSeniority level : Mid‑SeniorJob function : OtherIndustries : Education Administration ProgramsApplication Process
Applications close Midnight Monday 24 November 2025. To apply, submit a cover letter and resume using the ‘apply’ button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.
For further information, contact Jen Fraser, General Manager, Schools Policy at .
We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.
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