Regulatory Practice Design Specialist - Operational Design

Help shape the future of education in New Zealand

Help shape the future of Education

We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes

Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.

About this role

We’re looking for a senior design professional to bring a regulatory lens to the design of operational policy, services and business processes, contributing specialist expertise that supports effective education delivery.

This permanent role sits within the Operational Design and Development (OD&D) function. OD&D works collaboratively across Te Tāhuhu and with stakeholders and partners to develop practical systems, processes, tools and resources.

As a Regulatory Design Specialist, you’ll contribute specialist expertise to multi-functional design work, helping shape policies, practices and services that are robust, implementable, and responsive to the needs of ākonga, whānau, and educators.

You’ll work across matrix teams to support the Ministry’s pathway to becoming a modern regulator by partnering with legal, policy and regional teams and contributing to regulatory stewardship across the system.

You’ll also coach and mentor others, helping build design capability and consistency in regulatory practice across the function.

Salary range : $119,171 - $144,560 per annum + 3% kiwi saver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

About you

You’re a skilled design professional with broad experience applying a regulatory lens to operational design in complex environments. You understand how to balance operational needs, policy intent, and the lived experiences of those affected by regulation.

You will also offer :

• Proven experience in regulatory design and operational delivery improvement
• Strong understanding of public sector delivery and regulatory systems
• Experience leading operational design work across large programmes
• Commitment to equity and Te Tiriti-based practice
• Ability to coach, mentor and build capability in others
• A collaborative mindset and strong relationship skills
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team

The Operational Design and Development group are the designers who shape how education services are delivered across Aotearoa.

Within the group, our Delivery Team leads operational policy, service and business process design initiatives to deliver solutions that achieve Government priorities and address identified operational challenges and opportunities. Our work is diverse in nature and we work at pace with people from across the organisation and externally.

We centre the needs and experiences of ākonga, whānau, educators and communities. We work collaboratively to design systems, processes and guidance, so that education services are delivered more consistently, equitably and effectively.

Are you ready to make a difference?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

For further information, please contact Jacqueline Yoder, Manager Operational Design and Development Delivery at

Applications close Midnight – Monday, 10 November 2025.

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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