Drive regulatory planning, performance and continuous improvement across a complex regulatory environment
Use analytical and systems thinking to identify opportunities, manage risks, and drive better outcomes
Join a team committed to building capability, improving practice, and delivering better results for New Zealanders
Permanent opportunity based in Wellington
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
We have an exciting opportunity for a Principal Advisor – Planning, Performance & Improvement to join our team.
The Principal Advisor supports effective regulatory delivery by connecting planning, performance, assurance, and continuous improvement across the sub-system. You will lead the planning and prioritisation of regulatory activities and turn these into coordinated plans. Using strong analytical and systems thinking skills, you will turn performance insights into evidence-based recommendations that help inform decisions, manage risk, and prioritise work.
Working closely with operational teams and stakeholders, you will drive continuous improvement, strengthen regulatory practice, and enhance system performance. You will also support the Manager by mentoring Advisors and Senior Advisors, building capability and contributing to a high-performing team.
This is a key role where you will:
Lead regulatory planning, performance, and assurance activities that drive effective, risk-informed decision making
Shape regulatory priorities by aligning planning and delivery with strategy, risks, and emerging challenges
Monitor performance against plans and strategy and identify where decisions, interventions or reprioritisation may be needed
Transform data and insights into practical recommendations that improve regulatory outcomes and system performance
Drive continuous improvement by enhancing frameworks, processes, tools, and ways of working across the regulatory system
Partner with leaders and operational teams to strengthen regulatory practice, enhance system performance, and deliver meaningful improvement across the regulatory sub-system
You will find out more about the role here.
We are seeking to appoint at a salary between $133,632 - $148,480 commensurate with skills and experience.
Ko koe tēnei | About you
We are looking for someone who brings curiosity and sound judgement. You will be comfortable working with a wide range of data, people, and complex or ambiguous situations, bringing structure to competing priorities.
To be successful in this role, you will bring:
Understanding of regulatory theory and practice, including legislation, strategies, and machinery of Government
Proven ability to translate strategic direction into operational delivery within a large, complex organisation, with a focus on regulatory outcomes
Demonstrated experience in planning, performance monitoring and reporting, and assurance frameworks and tools that drive operational effectiveness in a regulatory environment
Strong written communication and presentation skills, with the ability to produce high-quality reports and deliver clear, concise advice and recommendations
Experience in influencing, collaborating, and building credibility across a wide range of stakeholders, including internal teams and external partners
Strong attention to detail and accuracy in all work
Comfortable working in areas of ambiguity and complexity, learns quickly and adapts to change with a proactive and self-directed approach to problem-solving
Qualifications:
A tertiary qualification in a relevant discipline such as public policy, business, law, data analytics, or a related field, along with any additional certifications in performance monitoring, project management, or continuous improvement methodologies.
Equivalent experience gained in a regulatory, government, or complex operational environment, with demonstrated capability in performance reporting, risk analysis, and operational planning.
Demonstrated knowledge of, or a willingness to learn an understanding of Te Ao Māori…