Senior Advisor Caregivers

Lead initiatives that improve outcomes for caregivers of tamariki and rangatahi whaikaha Fixed term, full-time opportunity to 30 June 2027 Wellington-based 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 respect the Mana of people 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 The Oranga Tamariki Disability Strategy was shaped through extensive engagement with the disability community, including tāngata whaikaha Māori, Pacific disabled people, care-experienced young people, iwi, and whānau. In September 2025, Te Riu (our Leadership team) endorsed a dedicated Programme to support implementation of this Strategy - strengthening how we meet the disability needs and uphold the rights of tamariki, rangatahi, parents and caregivers. The Disability Programme focuses on improving practices and services, strengthening disability data and insights, building capability across all kaimahi, and enhancing our ability to advocate for change across the children’s and disability systems. As a Senior Advisor, Caregiver , you will provide specialist practice expertise and lead initiatives that strengthen support for caregivers of disabled tamariki and rangatahi. Working within the Office of the Chief Social Worker and Professional Practice group, you will help shape and improve caregiver practice, develop guidance and frameworks, and commission initiatives that enhance caregiver wellbeing and outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi whaikaha. This role works across Oranga Tamariki, partnering with internal and external stakeholders to understand caregiver needs, design practical solutions, and ensure practice standards are embedded in guidance, learning materials and initiatives. You will use insights, research and evaluation to identify opportunities for improvement and will play a key role in developing resources and supports that make a meaningful difference to caregivers and the tamariki they care for. The ideal candidate will bring lived experience of disability to the way we work. Key requirements of the role include: Knowledge of the disability sector and models of disability, with experience in public sector, frontline service environments, or organisations with similar complexity. Demonstrated connection to the disability community and experience designing, developing, and delivering disability-centred products and communications. Knowledge and practical application of project and programme management methodologies, with proven ability to lead initiative delivery complex organisational environments. Demonstrated strategic thinking, advisory and decision-making capability, supported by analytical skills, evidence and stakeholder feedback. Highly developed stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across diverse groups, facilitate input, and produce high-quality project artefacts and reporting. Experience working across business, operational, and technology environments, fostering teamwork, innovation, and high-performance outcomes. Understanding of cross-cultural practices, including tikanga Māori and Pacific perspectives, and the ability to apply these in delivery. It’s of the upmost importance to have strong relationship management skills and the ability to work collaboratively with caregivers, providers, iwi, government agencies and kaimahi to influence and deliver positive change for this opportunity. Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. The mid-point annual remuneration for this role is $117,782 dependant on experience. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi. Internal secondment opportunities may be considered. If you are interested in a secondment to this role, please discuss with your direct manager or People and Performance Partner first. Oranga Tamariki is committed to making the recruitment process accessible and equitable. Support may include: Assistance for mobility and transport needs. Accessible meeting spaces and online options. Adjustments to the application or interview process on request. We encourage applications from disabled persons and welcome you to talk with us about any support you may need throughout the application process. If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol. Location(s) Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua, Paraparaumu, Wellington Expertise Social Work, Care Services, Management, Other, Services for children and families, Youth Justice #J-18808-Ljbffr