Director Strategic Operations

At Oranga Tamariki, our vision is that all tamariki are safe, loved and nurtured by whānau, hapū and iwi, supported by thriving communities. We are seeking two exceptional senior leaders to join Tamariki and Whānau Services as Director Strategic Operations. These are permanent fulltime roles, with x1 based in Christchurch and x1 based in Auckland. Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do. In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values: We put Tamariki first We believe Aroha is vital We respect the Mana of people We are Tika and Pono We value Whakapapa We recognise that Oranga is a journey We are committed to ensuring that New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child. We are also committed to ensuring Oranga Tamariki partners with hapū, iwi and Māori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need. Mō te tūnga | About the role Reporting directly to the National Commissioner, this influential role sits at the heart of operational leadership and strategic delivery. You will provide trusted advice, lead critical change initiatives, drive performance improvement, and support the successful implementation of priorities that improve outcomes for children, young people and their families across Aotearoa. As Director Strategic Operations, you will be a key member of the National Commissioner's leadership team, working across complex operational environments to ensure strategic priorities are translated into meaningful results. You will: Provide high-quality strategic advice and counsel to the National Commissioner. Lead and coordinate major operational responses, initiatives and improvement programmes. Drive performance, assurance, analysis and continuous improvement activities. Manage complex, high-profile operational and stakeholder issues. Influence and collaborate across Oranga Tamariki, government agencies, iwi, Māori partners and community organisations. Champion effective change implementation, ensuring initiatives are embedded into day-to-day operations. Use data, insights and system-level thinking to identify opportunities for improved performance and service delivery. We are looking for a proven senior executive who thrives in complex environments and brings outstanding leadership capability, strategic judgement and political acumen. Additionally, you'll have: Significant senior leadership experience within the public sector, social services, or similarly complex environments. A strong track record of leading large-scale operational improvement and transformation programmes. Experience managing organisational performance, risk, governance and business planning. Exceptional stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills. Strong analytical capability and the ability to translate complex information into practical solutions. Deep understanding of government processes, priorities and systems. The ability to influence senior leaders and build trusted partnerships across diverse stakeholder groups. Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you Oranga Tamariki offers a step-based remuneration package that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi. Location(s) All New Zealand, Te Tai Tokerau Region, Kaitaia, North Shore, Hamilton, Tauranga, Hastings, Wellington, Hawera, Blenheim, Ashburton, Alexandra, Auckland, Kaikohe, West Auckland, Paeroa, Rotorua, Dannevirke, Lower Hutt, Horowhenua, Greymouth, Christchurch, Balclutha, Waikato, Whangarei, Central Auckland, Tokoroa, Napier, Upper Hutt, Palmerston North, Nelson, Rangiora, Dunedin, Bay of Plenty, Dargaville, South Auckland, Taupō, Gisborne, Porirua, Manawatu, Timaru, Gore, East Coast, Whakatane, Hawkes Bay, Paraparaumu, New Plymouth, Invercargill, Wellington, Masterton, Taumarunui, Oamaru, Taranaki-Manawatu, Wairoa, Whanganui, Upper South, Waipukurau, Canterbury, Lower South Expertise Care Services, Management, Services for children and families Job level(s) Senior, Experienced, Management, Executive #J-18808-Ljbffr