Principal Advisor, National Security Policy and Coordination

Principal Advisor, National Security Policy and Coordination

National Security and Resilience Group, DPMC

Wellington-based | Full-time | Permanent

Shape the Future of New Zealands National Security

Are you an ambitious policy professional ready to take your career to the next level? Join the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) as a Principal Advisor, National Security Policy and Coordination, and work at the centre of government on issues that matter most to New Zealand. This is your chance to deliver high-quality policy advice, tackle complex national security challenges, and collaborate with top minds across government and internationally. This role offers the opportunity to make a real impact where it counts.

Mo tenei turanga mahi | About this role

The National Security Strategy, Policy, Intelligence team sits within the National Security Policy and Coordination Directorate in the National Security and Resilience Group (NSRG). The team provides strategic system leadership on the National Security Strategy, national security legislation, and intelligence coordination.

Successful applicants will lead the delivery of advice to the Chief Executive-level National Security Board, the National Security Advisor, and Ministers; support coordination of work programmes across government; and engage in a range of domestic and international fora. This is an exciting role at the heart of central government. Youll work with agencies across the public service, including in intelligence, defence, security, and more.

The Principal Advisor is responsible for leading policy analysis and advice within their portfolio of issues in a collaborative, cross-agency environment, coordinating and conducting outreach and awareness-raising initiatives, and supporting strategic system leadership and delivery of the cross-government work programme.

This role is full-time and is Wellington-based.

O pumanawa | About You

As part of the high-performing and collaborative team, youll contribute to the work by helping to set the strategic direction and drive the work programme, including leading complex policy projects.

The Policy Project's Policy Skills Framework describes the knowledge, skills and behaviours required of NSRGs policy staff. Principal Advisors (considered equivalent to Lead Advisor) are expected to demonstrate these at the leading level.

For detailed descriptors, refer to the full Policy Skills Framework here.

To be successful, you will bring with you:

• Strong understanding of national security and resilience policy frameworks, intelligence coordination, and cross-agency governance.
• Expertise in public sector policy development processes and an ability to navigate complex policy environments.
• Proven ability to synthesise complex data, intelligence, and risk information into clear, actionable strategic advice.
• Exceptional engagement and relationship management skills, and a demonstrated ability to build relationships across a wide array of stakeholders and to influence and engage others within and outside the organisation
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including drafting for Ministers and senior stakeholders.
• Strong organisational insight and cultural competence, with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Dedication to mentoring, coaching, and inclusive leadership.
• Strong public sector foundations, including an understanding of the obligations of the Crown under the Treaty of Waitangi and expectations of M ori related to your work.

Experience working in or with the wider New Zealand intelligence community is desirable. However, it may be possible to adapt the role and portfolio to the successful candidate, and we recommend you apply even if you do not have experience in this area.

If you're driven by a passion for national security, thrive on strategic challenges, and aspire to make a significant impact at the heart of government, we want you on the team.

Security Requirements | Ng Whakaritenga Haumarutanga

You must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Special security clearance. Normally to obtain this level of clearance you must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a Resident class visa. Alternatively, you must have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia with a 15-year checkable background. To find out more check your eligibility for a TOP SECRET SPECIAL (TSS) security clearance

Why Join Us? | N te aha i Tuhono Mai Ai Ki a M tou?

Working at DPMC means being at the heart of some of the most significant and impactful work in Aotearoa New Zealand. This role presents an opportunity to lead and contribute to the security and wellbeing of New Zealanders, working with smart and motivated people in an environment that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence. You'll be part of a high-performing organisation that prioritises professional development.

The salary range starts from $147,177 to $164,492 p/annum including KiwiSaver contributions and appointments will depend on demonstrable skills and experience.

How to Apply | Me pehea te tono

A full job description is available below. If this role is of interest, please click 'Apply now' and submit your tailored Cover Letter and CV. All applications must be made online. The closing date for this role is 8pm Sunday 7 December 2025

If you have questions about the role, please contact Greg Mitchell-Kouttab (greg.mitchell-).