Help shape the future of Education
We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes
Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.
About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga
We are recruiting two positions, a Principal Advisor Contracts on a permanent basis and a Principal Advisor Contracts fixed term for 3 years.
This role is a leader tasked with designing, managing, and evaluating a portfolio of contracts that recruit, retain, and train New Zealand’s education workforce.
Collaborate with top-tier NGOs and providers to ensure every investment drives transformative initiatives in talent supply, growth, and retention.
Your strategic advice and expertise will forge critical partnerships with service providers and the Ministry, all while your keen eye for detail and risk management guarantees success. If you’re ready to make every cent count toward a brighter educational future, we want to hear from you.
Salary range: $118,371 - $143,760 per annum + 3% kiwi saver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.
About you | Mōhou ake
We are looking for a strategic thinker, a relationship builder, and a mentor who can model good practices and uplift team contract management capability. You’ll need to be able to influence senior stakeholders internally and externally, drive performance and be diligent with detail.
You will have responsibility for a diverse portfolio of critical contracts that support workforce development initiatives.
You will also offer:
- 5 years experience in a principal or senior advisory role with experience in managing contract lifecycles
- Experience in successfully building and managing strategic supplier relationships.
- Experience working in a contract management role in a large and/or complex organisation
- Experience working in a commercial environment and a sound understanding of the Government rules of sourcing and the machinery of Government
- Familiarity with relevant legislative and regulatory requirements, as well as understanding of standard contractual terms and conditions to mitigate risk.
- Proven business acumen and good judgment applied in commercial management and procurement.
- Proven experience in developing Ministerial papers and executive level reporting.
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
We are a dedicated team that loves to learn and continuously improve our work. We work across a range of initiatives giving heaps of opportunity to learn, share knowledge and grow. We enjoy taking on challenges and make sure we celebrate our success together.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
Te Pou Ohumahi | Education Workforce is working to enable a strong culturally competent education workforce that drives a world leading learner-focussed education system. In Workforce Experience and Delivery we work as a multi- disciplinary team to provide the workforce with the services and support they need to thrive, enabling a focus on student success.
Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?
If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.
For further information, please contact mined.recruitment@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight – Tuesday, 05 August 2025.
We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.