Principal Advisor, Policy

2 weeks ago

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand New Zealand Government Full time
Are you looking for a varied role with scope to lead, drive change and make a difference for New Zealanders?


If so, you may be just the person we are looking for to take up a newly created role in our policy team, which support both the GCSB and NZSIS.

Mō te tūranga mahi - about the role

As a Principal Policy Advisor, you will be a key leader in the policy team, working across Government to ensure that national security outcomes are front of mind in decision making.

You will be part of a team that provides support and advice to a range of Ministers, Directors-General of both the GCSB and NZSIS, and senior officials from across the public sector.

You will build relationships and work closely with the Senior Leaders and colleagues across the GCSB and NZSIS and across the wider national security community.


We are looking for an experienced principal advisor to:

  • Lead policy work that will result in significant legislative change
  • Work collaboratively within and across agencies to deliver results
  • Ensure that national security outcomes are recognised and prioritised in regulatory reforms
  • Support senior leaders and Directors-General to make informed and coordinated decisions
  • Promote an understanding of NZSIS and GCSB strategic objectives
Ko wai koe - about you

We are looking for an experienced, collaborative policy professional who enjoys solving policy problems, mentoring others and building strong relationships.


To be successful in this role, you will bring:

  • Significant experience in the development and delivery of policy
  • The ability to influence without authority
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Judgement and political nous
  • A high level of strategic, analytical and conceptual thinking in a complex environment
  • Significant understanding of the machinery of Government
  • A demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships internally and externally
  • Enthusiasm for coaching and mentoring others


Previous experience working with or within the intelligence community, or experience within the national security community, is a bonus, but not a requirement.

We work in a highly collaborative environment where you will be empowered to lead, supported to deliver and the focus will be on ensuring you are able to bring your whole self to the role.

To be eligible for employment within the NZIC you must have been a NZ citizen for at least 10 years.

Alternatively you must hold a current NZ Residency Class Visa and ideally have been a citizen of UK, USA, Canada or Australia for at least 10 years.

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