Posted 16 July, 2026
Kaitūhono - Connector | Palmerston North | Permanent
Ministry of Social Development
Palmerston North, MWT, NZ
Full Time
Reference: 10e1545e7e3e38d6
Job Description
Play a key role in the Enabling Good Lives (EGL) approach by working alongside disabled people and whānau to realise aspirations, make decisions, and live their good lives. The Disability Support Services (DSS) Group is responsible for commissioning, funding, and stewarding high-quality services that support disabled people, their families, and whānau. We’re building leadership and management capacity across our teams to deliver both change and business-as-usual effectively. We work closely with providers, stakeholders, and communities to ensure services are fair, consistent, transparent and sustainable. With a strong focus on performance monitoring, data, and insights, we’re committed to continuous improvement and evidence-based decision-making. It’s an exciting time to join DSS as we strengthen our systems and expand our capabilities. We’re looking for passionate people to help us achieve our goals and make a meaningful impact. About the role | Mō te tūnga As a Kaitūhono Connector, you’ll work in homes, schools, and communities to proactively develop strong relationships with disabled people and whānau. You’ll partner with them to identify options, create possibilities, and connect to supports that enable them to achieve outcomes that matter most. Key responsibilities include: Establish respectful, trusting relationships with disabled people and whānau. Listen to aspirations and help identify creative options and opportunities. Connect people to funded and unfunded supports and community resources. Support people to understand funding processes and self-manage budgets. Maintain accurate records and manage a complex caseload using EGL systems. Build collaborative relationships with providers, agencies, and stakeholders. This role is located in Palmerston North and remote work is not possible for this role. We value diversity and welcome applications from disabled people and those who have lived experience with whānau, or the disability community. Deep understanding of the Enabling Good Lives vision and principles. Experience supporting people to think creatively about life opportunities. Strong connections to, and knowledge of, local communities and resources. Ability to engage effectively with Māori and Pacific families and communities. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with resilience and adaptability. Strong planning, organisational, and problem‑solving skills. Ability to manage sensitive information with integrity and discretion. Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and equity principles. Resilience, adaptability, and a strong client focus. Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $79,200.00 - $95,873.00 #J-18808-Ljbffr