General Manager - System Policy

Join us in making a real impact and driving positive change for children, young people and their families.

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting children and young people at the heart of what we do. In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values :

• We put Tamariki first
• We believe Aroha is vital
• We respect the Mana of people
• We are Tika and Pono
• We value Whakapapa
• We recognise that Oranga is a journey

As the lead agency in the children’s system, Oranga Tamariki plays a crucial role in ensuring the protection and wellbeing of New Zealand’s children, young people, and their families. We are committed to ensuring that New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child.

Mō te tūnga | About the role

We are seeking a dynamic individual to lead our team and play a critical role in shaping the implementation of our strategic direction.

You will be a key leader within Oranga Tamariki, working closely with other leaders to shape, lead and drive delivery of Our Strategy, including playing a critical role in implementing strategic shifts and leading the Children's System, Policyteam to achieve the Ministry's goals for children.

Your work will involve developing and leading policy advice across both central government and the Children's system. You will ensure performance improvement and evidence-based decision-making are at the core of our Policy advice and that our governance structures support the oversight and implementation of Our Strategy. Ensuring children in care are at receiving the services that they are entitled to including access to health and education. You will be experienced in supporting front line staff and managers to establish regional relationships that result in the best possible response to children at risk of coming into care, in care or transitioning from care and youth justice.

You will be a proven leader experienced in delivering on implementing strategic initiatives. An effective leader of leaders that builds relationships the effect positive change and demonstrated experience on working in complex environments and delivering. You will be an excellent communicator and collaborator both written and verbal. Have an expert understanding of regulatory compliance in the public sector with a deep understanding of the role of governance within a government or similar agency.

You will bring a demonstrated experience of driving agency and system performance improvement with an understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga Māori, and Pacific peoples' culture.

This role is based in ourNational Office. Due to the operational requirements and dynamic nature of the role, it will be beneficial for you to be able to provide close support to the team around you. Candidates for this role are required to already be based in Wellington or be willing to relocate for this opportunity.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Oranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. Annual remuneration for this position starts circa 235K dependant on experience .

We also offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi .

Apply online with your CV and Covering Letter. If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please ensure you apply with a log in using your Oranga Tamariki email address.

Applications for this role close at midnight on Sunday 16th November 2025.

If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.

Reference # 39008

Posted on 06 Nov 2025

Closes on 16 Nov : 55

Location(s) Wellington

Expertise Analysts, Management, CEO & General Management, Management & Change Consulting, Ministerials / OIA Advisors, Planning and Regulation, Policy, Project Management, Strategy and Planning, Policy, Consulting & Strategy

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