Principal Adviser

Job title: Principal Adviser, Bilateral Relations and Trade

Role type: Permanent

Location: Wellington

Salary band & range; GSR B $138,983 to $186,493

Depending on the skills and experience of the successful candidate, we anticipate appointing near the midpoint of $162,716.

About the Role - Kōrero mō te Tūranga

We are seeking a Principal Adviser to join the Bilateral Relations and Trade (Europe, UK and Oceania) team within MPI's Trade and International Relations Directorate. As Principal Adviser - Bilateral Relations and Trade, you will play a key thought leadership role in our bilateral primary industries engagement with important trading partners including the European Union, United Kingdom and Australia.

The Principal Adviser will drive the development of strategic bilateral engagement objectives across these markets and support building capability across the Bilateral Relations and Trade division. This will require working closely with Directorate colleagues focused on trade, environment and sustainability and cross-cutting functions to design, coordinate and deliver bilateral work programmes. The role will require strong cross-MPI and inter-agency collaboration and the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders.

The Principal Adviser will also be responsible for leading briefings, correspondence and communication in support of these work programmes, including supporting Ministerial and senior level international engagement.

As an internationally-focused position, the role will also require international travel for working level discussions.

About You - Mōu

This role is ideal for someone who has a solid understanding of New Zealand's international agriculture priorities, trade policy architecture and the global rules-based trading system. It would also suit someone who may be looking to grow their expertise in New Zealand's primary industries trade priorities. You will enjoy providing advice and identifying strategic objectives in critical market areas for NZ.

Key skills and attributes required:

• Strategic agility - the ability to move deftly between the big picture and delivery

• Strong writing skills - clear, concise communication is essential

• Ability to perform under pressure - meeting tight deadlines while maintaining accuracy.

• Diplomatic approach - carry mana, stay composed, and distil complex information into key points

• Creative problem-solving - think outside the box to seize opportunities to improve primary sector bilateral relations and trade

• Excellent relationship management - engage effectively with stakeholders, industry partners and international counterparts.

You do not need to meet all of the role requirements to apply. We offer a breadth of development and learning opportunities and will welcome an application if you think you could make a great fit.

About the Team - Mō tō mātou Rōpū

The Bilateral Relations and Trade Division is responsible for maintaining effective bilateral relationships with trading partners. The Division is responsible for maintaining relationships with overseas competent authorities and work programmes to protect and enhance New Zealand's access to international markets.

About MPI - Mō te Manatū Ahu Matua

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) partners with New Zealand's food and fibre sector to be the world's most trusted provider of high-value food and fibre products.

Benefits of working at MPI - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Ahu Matua

• Additional MPI leave days

• Ability to purchase extra annual leave

• Career development and internal opportunities across the branch and organisation

Security checks - Ngā Taki Whakahaumaru

Low level Security Clearance

• most preferably a New Zealand citizen, who has resided continuously in New Zealand for at least the last five (5) years, OR

• is a citizen of, and/or has resided continuously in one or more of the following countries for the last five (5) years: either Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom (UK) or the United States of America (USA); and has a background history that is verifiable and can be assessed as appropriate by the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) towards a recommendation of suitability for a security clearance at this level.

• click here to find out more about the national security vetting process and access the eligibility self-check tool.

If you do not meet these minimum criteria, we will not be able to accept your application.

Are you ready to make a difference? - Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi whaitake?

We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi which includes working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau and hāpori.

We aspire to reflect the diverse communities we serve, so we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and identities. As an organisation, we are committed to making Manatū Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries a great place to work for all.

In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values; your interest and motivations for this role; the abilities, strengths, personal attributes and diverse perspectives you will bring to the role and this organisation, which may have also been gained outside of the workforce.

To view the position description and/or apply online, please click "APPLY FOR THIS JOB" or visit the MPI Careers Site. To apply, you must hold the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it - click here to find out more about work visa eligibility and options.

Applications close at midnight on 4 November 2025

If you have any questions about the role, please email

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