Chief Data

## About this role* Set the strategic direction for how data is governed, integrated, and leveraged across Ara Poutama Aotearoa* Lead cross-sector collaboration and influence system-wide approaches through strategic data leadership* Advance organisational data capability and maturity to enable digital transformation and innovation**Mō te tūnga | About the role**As Chief Data and Analytics Officer, you will set the strategic direction for how data is governed, secured, and leveraged as a critical asset. Reporting to the Deputy Chief Executive, Strategy and Corporate Services, you will operate at the highest level of the organisation, providing thought leadership and system-wide influence to ensure data drives transformation and delivers measurable outcomes for whānau, communities, and government. You will lead the development of an enterprise Data Strategy and Governance Framework, embedding ethical, trusted, and secure data practices across all functions. Your remit spans oversight of analytics, research, and insights, while advancing organisational data maturity and capability. In addition, you will hold key system-critical responsibilities as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Artificial Intelligence Assurance Officer (AIAO), and Chair of the Data & Information Product Group. This is a highly visible role requiring exceptional strategic acumen and influence across government and the justice sector. You will shape enterprise approaches to data ethics, security, and AI adoption, and lead initiatives that enable innovation, strengthen resilience, and unlock the full potential of data as a catalyst for change. If you are a proven leader who can navigate complexity, set bold direction, and deliver impact at scale, this is your opportunity to lead a transformation that matters.**Mōu | About you**You are a strategic leader who sees the big picture and positions data as a critical enabler of transformation. You've led enterprise-level strategies, shaped governance frameworks, and built capability across complex environments. You bring credibility when engaging with senior stakeholders, Ministers, and cross-government partners. You thrive in complexity, translating strategic intent into actionable programmes that deliver measurable outcomes. Collaboration is your strength; you lead through influence, aligning diverse perspectives to achieve common goals. You are values-driven, future-focused, and ready to set bold direction for how Ara Poutama Aotearoa and the wider justice sector harness data to deliver better outcomes.**Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience**You'll bring the following with you to the role:* Proven experience leading large-scale data transformation and governance initiatives, delivering strategies that achieve measurable results.* Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to turn complex data challenges into clear, actionable plans.* Expertise in data analytics and performance measurement, using insights to guide critical decisions and improve organisational and system outcomes.* Ability to influence at senior levels, with strong relationship management skills to navigate complexity and lead collaboration across government.* Extensive knowledge of data technologies and regulatory requirements, including data ethics, security, AI adoption, and Māori Data Sovereignty principles.**Utu ā-tau | Salary**The mid-point of the salary range is $214,424 per annum and the full range (85%-120%) is $182,261 - $257,309 per annum. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role, with flexibility to consider the end of the band where necessary for the right candidate. Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our strategy. We value in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.**Tono ināianei | Apply Now**To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered. When applying, submit a tailored **CV and a cover letter** describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.**Applications close on: Sunday 11th January**If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact Tom. Nicholas@corrections.govt.nz or visit **careers.corrections.govt.nz.**| Location: | Wellington (Te Whanganui a Tara) || Attachments: | (PDF, 395 KB) Position Description (Word, 230 KB) Position Description | #J-18808-Ljbffr