Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa
The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature spaces and species across Aotearoa.
Tangata whenua are inextricably linked to the whenua and te taiao, and we desire a future where whānau, hapū and iwi can thrive in their role as rangatira and kaitiaki.
Tō tātou taiāo. Tō tātou hītori. He tāonga tūturu nō Aotearoa. Maioha rawatia. Poipoia rawatia. Tukua.
Our nature. Our history. It's New Zealand's unique legacy. Enjoy it. Enrich it. Pass it on.

He angitūtanga | About the role
The Department of Conservation (DOC) is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Senior National Programmes Advisor to join our team in Conservation House, Wellington. This role is pivotal in supporting the Director and contributing to our nationally led biodiversity programmes. These include the National Predator Control Programme, the Wild Animal Management Programme, and Predator Free 2050. The position involves managing complex communication issues, crafting official correspondence, and ensuring effective communication across several intertwined programmes.
In this role, you will oversee the coordination and quality of official correspondence associated with national programmes. You will deliver high-quality specialist advice and support to address Ministerial and Official Information Act (OIA) requests and will coordinate formal responses to sensitive or controversial issues. You'll do this by supporting the managers of several diverse national programmes to ensure excellent official communication on multiple complex issues.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work across multiple national programmes, ensuring cohesive support and integration.
• Assess risk and oversee National Programmes official correspondence responses.
• Engage with stakeholders, create detailed implementation plans, and monitor progress to ensure very high-quality official correspondence standards.
• Review and enhance materials for the Minister and other stakeholders, manage sensitive issues, and ensure high standards of communication.
• Define task parameters, identify resource needs, and collaborate with other units to deliver outcomes that meet established standards.

Key Experience and Qualifications required:

• Proven experience in communication, policy analysis, or similar roles, preferably within a government, operational or conservation context.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate complex information into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with experience in managing diverse relationships and facilitating collaboration.
• Familiarity with political processes and the ability to navigate sensitive issues with discretion and professionalism.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on clarity and effectiveness.

Why Join Us?
This position offers an exciting opportunity to shape strategic initiatives that contribute to the sustainability of New Zealand's natural environment. You will work closely with senior leadership and play a pivotal role in delivering conservation outcomes in accordance with the Aotearoa NZ Biodiversity Strategy and the national Predator Free 2050 (PF2050) Strategy.
Join us in making a significant impact on our biodiversity and help us achieve a pest-free Aotearoa.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What's in it for you?
DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We're working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default. You can learn more about what we offer here.

Tono ināianei | Apply now
Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience, and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted.
If you require any accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.
The salary range for this position is $89,757 to $113,578 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience. Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory – this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.
Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.
Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday 3rd November 2024.
Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, contact Peter Morton at pmorton@doc.govt.nz
Taupānga | Job reference: DOC/1824239