Principal Advisor Operational Policy

Principal Advisor, Operational Policy & Implementation: Kaitohutohu Matamua - Whakatinana Kaupapahere

Te Amorangi Matauranga Matua, the Tertiary Education Commission - is a small Crown agency with a big job to do - ensuring New Zealanders have the skills and the knowledge they need to build a great life, and ensure New Zealand thrives. We invest over $3.5 billion annually across the tertiary education and careers systems.

If you're looking for your "why", then come and join us at TEC. We truly believe in the transformational benefits of education and vocational training and seek to lift the aspirations and skill bases of all New Zealanders.

We value collaboration, integrity, and service - working together to make a meaningful difference for all New Zealanders. If you are passionate about education and want to help design operational policy that drives real impact, this is a great opportunity.

This is a fixed term role to cover parental leave through to 26 March 2027. It is estimated the successful candidate would start in the role in January 2026.

He angitutanga: About the Role

The Principal Advisor role will become a member of the Operational Policy & Implementation leadership group. The role will provide thought leadership and technical support across the work programme and for all group members.

The ideal candidate will enjoy being across a range of initiatives (not sole focus) and working collaboratively with others to review and support work.

Your mahi will be varied, and you will use your skills and experience to:

• Work across the business, with team members, and with other agencies to lead operational policy work
• Develop service approaches, funding conditions, assessment frameworks, and guidelines that support internal and external audiences to understand policies and processes
• Provide advice on the interpretation of legislation and related policy products
• Support policy agencies on the creation of policy and associated advice to Ministers
• Develop tertiary education subject matter expertise and provide thought leadership for the team and wider TEC

He korero mou: What we are looking for

In addition to relevant policy and implementation design experience, we look out for people that are:

• Collaborative by nature - within the team, across the organisation, and externally
• Able to think strategically, but also love delving into the detail to find opportunities; critical thinking and problem-solving skills are a must
• At ease with ambiguity and use creative skills and initiative to reach positive outcomes
• Known for strong, plain English, writing skills across varied content types
• Passionate about getting the most from others - respected for your coaching and mentoring talents.

Nga ahuatanga kei a matou: What's in it for you

• Three additional (TEC Days) leave days.
• Recognition of previous public service which enhances your annual leave, long service leave and severance entitlements (conditions apply).
• A range of benefits including flexible working options and a wellness programme.
• A motivated and supportive manager, keen to make the most of your skill set.
• Reduced premiums through our Health Insurance Group Scheme.
• A focus on Career development and internal opportunities.
• At TEC we are committed to supporting a range of flexible working arrangements to help staff manage their work and personal commitments, we also expect team members to be in the office at least three days per week to help collaboration.

The salary range for this position starts from $128,284 up to $150,923 + 3% KiwiSaver depending on demonstrable skills and experience.

Me pehea te tuku tono - How to apply

To view the job description and/or apply for the role, please click Apply For This Job or visit the TEC Careers Portal.

If this sounds like you, please apply now for this great opportunity with your tailored Cover Letter and CV.

The closing date for this role is 11:59pm Wednesday 03 December 2025. For more information or if you have any questions, please contact

Applicants must have the ability to obtain and maintain the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Prior to the Tertiary Education Commission confirming any offer of employment, pre-employment checks will be undertaken including criminal conviction history and reference checking as a minimum.

The TEC is an equal opportunity employer and committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Your unique talents and experience will help us deliver exceptional services to New Zealand. We look forward to your application.