Principal Advisor, Operational Policy & SAC

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Principal Advisor, Operational Policy & SAC

Fixed Term (November 2025)

Part Time (0.5 FTE)

Are you passionate about shaping education policy and ensuring equitable outcomes? NZQA is seeking an experienced Principal Advisor. You'll develop robust policies, collaborate with key stakeholders, and embed Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles. Join us to drive innovative policy thinking and support learners across New Zealand.

Whakatairangatia ngā kete o te mātauranga ki te ao mārama! E te tai whakarunga, e te tai whakararo – nau piki mai, nau kake mai ki te Mana Tohu Mātauranga o Aotearoa.

May the baskets of knowledge (education) be brought into the world of light. We welcome one and all to join us at the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

About the role 

• Develop and Monitor Policies: Create robust operational policies and reporting systems for assessment practices, ensuring quality assurance and strategic engagement.
• Strategic Contributions: Contribute to the strategic direction of the business unit, embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi aspirations and "equity by design" in policy development.
• Collaboration and Coordination: Work closely with Ministry of Education advisors and NZQA experts, coordinate SQAS team members, and collaborate with data teams to identify emerging issues.
• Reporting and Advising: Prepare reports for the Minister, contribute to various official documents, and provide advice to the business unit and Division.
• Sector Engagement: Represent NZQA in sector forums, respond to sector feedback, and lead the strategic approach for Special Assessment Conditions.

This role is Wellington-based.

Skills and experience - To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Policy Development Skills that align with broader education objectives.
• Understanding of the education system, with a preference for familiarity with NCEA.
• Experience working with the Machinery of Government.
• Strong Writing Skills.
• Analytical and Innovative Thinking.
• Capability to establish and maintain strong working relationships at senior levels, both internally and externally.
• Ability to work well under pressure to meet deadlines and deliverables.

An advantage would be knowledge of te ao Māori and a demonstrated commitment to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.

About us

NZQA is a te reo Māori learning organisation and is committed to equity and lifelong learning. We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds that will enrich our understanding of the education system. We prioritise the importance of understanding tikanga in building a culturally responsive workplace.  NZQA is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment to Māori and Pacific staff and has active Māori and Pacific staff networks which contribute to NZQA's strategic action plans - Te Kōkiritanga and Takiala Pasifika.

What we can offer:

• A meaningful role contributing to the quality and equity of New Zealand's national assessment systems.
• Opportunities to engage directly with schools across Aotearoa.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Flexibility to discuss secondment opportunities and hours of work
• A role with lots of variety
• To find out more click here NZQA Staff Benefits

Apply Now!

For more information about this role and NZQA please refer to the job description, NZQA's Customer Charter and Organisational Values. If you are applying/viewing through Seek, please click ‘apply now' to access these links.

If you would like to discuss further, please contact the Manager, Amanda Picken: Amanda.picken@nzqa.govt.nz

Apply now and help shape the future of national assessment in Aotearoa.

Applications close at 5.00 pm on 30 April 2025.