Senior or Principal Adviser - Government Relations and Advisory

## Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Wellington | Permanent | Full-time
• Salary range :
• Senior Adviser :
• $114,039 – $141,915
• Principal Adviser :
• $151,040 – $187,961You've built your policy chops. You know how government works — the levers, the language, the long game. Now you're looking for something more. A role that lets you stay grounded in the craft, but also stretch into new territory : shaping initiatives, building tools, and working with the people and communities we serve.This is that role.We're looking for a Senior or Principal Adviser to join our Government Relations and Advisory team — a small, sharp, and future-focused crew at the Ministry for Ethnic Communities. We sit at the intersection of policy, delivery and system change. Our work is about influence, yes — but also about impact.This isn't just about writing great advice (though you'll do that too). It's about :
• Advising on the grey areas
• — where there's no clear answer, but plenty of competing perspectives.
• Working across the system
• to embed inclusive practice and enhance how government works for communities.
• Designing practical tools and resources
• that help agencies and communities to take action.
• Spotting opportunities
• others might miss — and turning them into something real.If you're a Principal Adviser, you'll also play a key role in mentoring others and shaping the strategic direction of our work.
• What you'll bring
• Whether you're applying as a Senior or Principal Adviser, you'll need :
• Experience navigating ambiguity and
• making sound, practical calls
• The ability to
• synthesise diverse perspectives
• and land advice that's both thoughtful and actionable
• A delivery mindset
• — you're someone who gets things done
• strong policy background
• and deep understanding of the
• machinery of government
• Excellent
• communication and relationship
• skills — you know how to build trust and influence across the system
• It's a bonus (but not essential) if you bring any of these :
• The ability to hold a
• security clearance
• Experience in
• economic development
• Expertise in
• intercultural capability
• The Ministry for Ethnic Communities is the Government's chief advisor on ethnic diversity and inclusion. We're here to ensure ethnic communities are seen, heard, and valued — and that government works better for everyone.Our team is diverse, dedicated, and genuinely passionate about what we do. We're building something different here — and we'd love you to be part of it.
• How to apply
• Send us your CV and a cover letter that tells us :
• Why this role speaks to you
• Whether you're applying as a Senior or Principal Adviser
• What you bring to the table
• Applications close :
• 5pm, 21 November 2025 We'll be reviewing applications as they come in — so don't wait.
• We encourage inclusion and diversity at the Ministry for Ethnic Communities and are committed to equal opportunity in all our employment policies and procedures. We want to ensure accessibility needs are well supported, so the recruitment process is fair and equitable for all. Therefore, please let us know if there is any support, we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is fully accessible to you. You can contact us at if you would like to discuss any accessibility needs you may have.
• | Location : | Wellington - Wairarapa |

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