We are seeking an experienced senior leader to serve as the Chief Executive of the Charter School Agency. Charter schools are public schools. They differ from mainstream schools because they are operated by a Sponsor and are afforded flexibility over their operations in exchange for achieving outcomes set out in their contract.
The Government is committed to delivering world-class public education, improving attendance and engagement, lifting academic achievement, and delivering positive change for New Zealand children and future generations. Charter schools provide parents with further choices about how their children are educated.
The Charter School Agency is a small departmental agency that negotiates and manages contracts with Sponsors, delivers funding, engages with stakeholders (including those who are interested in being charter school sponsors) and provides support to the Authorisation Board, which holds decision rights over significant matters relating to the charter school model.
A key focus for the Chief Executive will be to mature the agency established in 2024, embed fit-for-purpose organisational practices and culture, ensure its performance (including rigorous data collection and analysis), and support the performance of the Authorisation Board. At the same time, they will work to grow the number of charter schools and students in the model.
The successful candidate will have a track record of driving change, innovation and performance across agencies and systems. They will have a strong understanding of the education sector, including the opportunities for the charter school model, and a commitment to leading with integrity. A proven ability to build respected and trusted relationships with Ministers and stakeholders - including in contested environments - is essential for the role.
More information on the key leadership dimensions of this role can be found in the position description.
If you think you are the right person, an application pack can be downloaded below.
For further information or a confidential discussion about this position, please contact:
Nick Ritchie
Strategic Advisor
021 314 896
nick.ritchie@publicservice.govt.nz
Completed applications must be submitted to CErecruitment@publicservice.govt.nz by Tuesday 19 August 2025 at 11:59pm.
Application pack
Position description(PDF, 209 KB)
Application form(DOCX, 153 KB)
Guide for applicants(PDF, 167 KB)