Senior Policy Manager, Infrastructure Policy

This is a 12‑month Fixed Term or Secondment opportunity based in Wellington. The Senior Policy Manager will lead the Infrastructure Policy team within the Schools Policy group (TePouKaupapahere), shaping the future of education policy in Aotearoa. The role involves working on complex, system‑level issues that directly affect learners, whānau and communities across NewZealand, and collaborating with policy and operational groups to deliver high‑quality advice.

• Lead strategic policy work and support the delivery of priority advice within the Schools Policy group.
• Manage and direct the Infrastructure Policy team.
• Collaborate with colleagues across policy and operational groups to develop thoughtful, evidence‑based policy.
• Ensure policy work aligns with regulatory settings, funding approaches and Treaty considerations.

• Proven experience leading complex and sensitive policy projects or programmes.
• Strong strategic thinking and sound judgement in policy development.
• Confidence working across a varied and evolving policy programme.
• Ability to work with ambiguity and long‑standing system challenges.
• Build strong relationships across teams, agencies and Ministers’ offices.
• Support and grow others, contributing to a positive and inclusive team culture.
• Understand and incorporate TeTiritioWaitangi considerations and Māori perspectives in policy.
• Willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

Supportive and caring team environment, opportunities to work on complex high‑value policy issues, and strong support for professional growth and development.

Salary range: $142,856 – $214,284 per annum + KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary that reflects individual skills and experience.