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Posted 20 August, 2026

Senior Policy Advisor | Kaitohutohu Kaupapa Here Matua

Parliamentary Service
Wellington, WGN, NZ Full Time
Reference: bfa143e8f6b0237a

Job Description

Te tĪma | The team: The Parliamentary Law and Practice Team plays a unique role in supporting New Zealand's democracy. The team provides expert advice on parliamentary, constitutional and public law matters, contributes to parliamentary effectiveness, and delivers policy and legislative advice that underpins the operation of Parliament. We're looking for an experienced Senior Policy Advisor to join our team and help shape the policy frameworks that support Members of Parliament and parliamentary parties. Mō te tūnga | About the role: This is an intellectually challenging and highly visible role where you'll provide expert policy advice on the legislative frameworks, rules, and directions that govern parliamentary funding and services. Working at the centre of Parliament, you'll engage with a wide range of senior stakeholders, including the Speaker's Office, Members of Parliament, Parliamentary Service and Office of the Clerk leaders, and external agencies. You'll be responsible for developing robust policy advice, managing complex issues, and ensuring stakeholders understand and can confidently apply parliamentary rules and legislative requirements. You’ll also contribute to Parliamentary Service Commission processes, prepare briefings and advice for senior decision-makers, manage consultation processes, and represent the organisation on policy matters when required. Success in this role requires someone who can think strategically whilst remaining highly organised and meticulous in managing competing priorities and deadlines. Ngā mahi | What you'll be doing: Providing high-quality, evidence-based policy analysis and advice on parliamentary funding and service frameworks. Preparing briefings, reports, correspondence and papers for senior leaders, the Speaker, and Parliamentary Service Commission. Leading consultation and engagement processes relating to policy and legislative changes. Building trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders across the parliamentary system. Interpreting legislation, regulations, determinations and Speaker's Directions and communicating advice clearly and confidently. Managing complex issues and adapting quickly to changing priorities and emerging challenges. Contributing to projects, reviews and organisational initiatives that strengthen parliamentary effectiveness. He aha tāu ka whiwhi | What you'll gain: This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of New Zealand's democracy and contribute to decisions that support the effective functioning of Parliament. Build deep expertise in parliamentary law, practice, and the legislative frameworks that underpin the work of Members of Parliament and parliamentary parties. Provide advice on complex and high-profile issues, influencing decisions that have organisation-wide impact. Develop your experience working with senior leaders, Members of Parliament, the Speaker's Office, and central government agencies. Gain exposure to Parliamentary Service Commission processes and governance decision-making. Strengthen your policy leadership capability through managing complex consultations, legislative reviews, and strategic policy projects. Contribute to meaningful work that supports Parliament and New Zealand's democratic institutions. For someone looking to broaden their policy expertise, deepen their understanding of the parliamentary environment, and build a valuable network across the public sector, this role offers a rare and rewarding career opportunity. The appointing salary range for this role is $$116, 979 – $129,155 per annum. Appointments will be based on skills and experience. Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | What you'll bring: Significant experience providing policy advice in a complex environment. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to develop practical solutions to complex issues. An ability to influence and engage credibly with senior stakeholders. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Confidence managing difficult conversations and presenting authoritative advice. Strong organisational and time management skills, with exceptional attention to detail. Sound judgement and the ability to identify when issues require escalation. A collaborative approach and the ability to build productive relationships across a diverse stakeholder group. Ideally, you'll also bring experience working within a parliamentary, legislative, public sector or constitutional environment, along with an understanding of legislative and regulatory frameworks. Why join us? This is a rare opportunity to work at the heart of New Zealand's parliamentary system, contributing directly to the frameworks that support the work of Parliament. You'll join a politically independent organisation committed to integrity, collaboration and excellence in public service. At Parliamentary Service and the Office of the Clerk, our values of Integrity, Manaakitanga, Accountability, Whanaungatanga, Empowerment and Impartiality guide everything we do as we work towards our vision of having the best people supporting the best parliament in the world. Please note: As a politically independent organisation supporting Parliament, employees are expected to maintain political neutrality and impartiality in the performance of their duties. The Parliamentary Service and the Office of the Clerk appoint on merit and are committed to diversity and inclusion and good employer principles. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and value the experience that your point of difference brings. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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