Ministerial Advisor (Level 2)

• Provide high level advice to Hon. Judith Collins KC
• Be part of a Government that is putting New Zealanders first
• Fast paced and ever-changing environment

Hon. Judith Collins KC, Minister of Defence, Minister for Digitising Government, Minister responsible for the GCSB and the NZSIS, Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Minister for Space, and the Attorney- General is seeking an Advisor who is committed to building a close and trusting working relationship. You will be providing the Minister with political oversight and high-quality independent advice on policy proposals and submissions received in line with the Government's objectives.
Being deeply involved in the Minister’s delegated areas of responsibility, you will have the opportunity to gain an insight into the workings of the Executive Government of today. This is a unique opportunity to share, contribute and strengthen your political knowledge in a high performing Ministerial office.
You will be relied upon to have an excellent understanding of existing government and public service protocols and processes which enable effective decision making. As someone who is able to think on your feet, solving a multitude of issues at any given point you will be able to use your knowledge and experience to help drive the Government’s plan forward. Your communication skills and ability to quickly build effective working relationships within the Minister’s team, peers and key stakeholders will result in you being sought out as a credible and reliable expert.
On any given day, you could be involved in providing advice to the Minister, reviewing and advising on Government policy, Official Information Act requests, Written Questions from the Opposition, contributing ideas for the programme of the House of Representatives, meeting with advocacy groups, attending joint Ministers’ meetings, discussing portfolio related issues with government officials or assisting Ministerial staff to progress Government legislation.
The Minister values and requires a high level of trust and self-management, allowing you to work independently while contributing to team results. It is essential you keep the Minister and staff informed of issues that impact on the workings of Government. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills along with attention to detail are essential. A relevant tertiary qualification and/or previous experience working in a ministerial office or Government department are highly desirable. Equally desirable is working knowledge of the Minister’s portfolios.
If you can interpret a wide range of information and resolve complex issues under pressure, this role may be just the next career move you are looking for.
This is a 9 month, events based fixed term contract position covering maternity leave. The salary band for this role is $99,020 – $133,130 per annum, with starting salaries reflecting relevant skills and experience, as well as internal parity.
About us
Ministerial Resourcing is the team within the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) responsible for ensuring Ministers’ offices are suitably resourced with a range of highly skilled staff, who, in turn, provide a high level of support to the Minister, and ensure the smooth day to day running of their office.
As a Ministerial office staff member, you will be employed by DIA, and supported by our dedicated team of Portfolio Managers. Our purpose is to serve and connect people, communities and Government to build a safe, prosperous and respected nation. In other words, it’s all about helping to make New Zealand better for New Zealanders.


Interested? Apply today!
Please note applicants must be Permanent Residents or NZ Citizens and are required to obtain and maintain a national security clearance at a Top Secret or above. Prior to applying please assess your eligibility status using the Protective Security Requirements tool found here: https://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/personnel-security/clearances/eligibility-tool/
Applications close Friday 6th September . For more information, please contact james.gillespie@dia.govt.nz
To review the full job description, please click here.