Senior Advisor, Policy
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
- Undertake policy work to improve regulatory quality across the whole of government
- Make a positive impact within a new central agency
- Work in a collaborative environment that values your professional input.
We have three full-time permanent roles in central Wellington.
About us:
The Ministry for Regulation is a small government agency with a big job to do.
We’re focused on lifting quality across all regulatory systems and supporting agencies with regulatory responsibilities to align with good practice. We want it to be easier for businesses to innovate, grow and comply, while still ensuring the benefits from regulation that we take for granted won’t change.
We are a small group of dedicated professionals, working in a 'can do' environment.
About the Role:
The Ministry has three Senior Advisor, Policy roles within the Policy Group. In this role, you will lead and advise on strategic policy development, provide expert advice to senior leadership, and lead policy advice from inception through to delivery.
The Policy Group’s core functions are to:
- Oversee the regulatory management system and provide strategic coordination
- Lead regulatory stewardship work across the public sector
- Manage the regulatory impact analysis system
- Provide second-opinion advice on significant regulatory proposals across government.
The roles are within the Regulatory Management System, Regulatory Stewardship and Regulatory Policy Design Teams. The specific work and focus of the role will change over time to reflect the priorities of the Ministry and Minister for Regulation, but depending on which team you are part of, you can expect to:
Regulatory Stewardship team
- Provide advice on cross-cutting issues impacting multiple regulatory systems
- Support agencies in their regulatory stewardship work.
Regulatory Management System team
- Support the progress of the Regulatory Standards Bill through the parliamentary process
- Undertake detailed design work relating to the Regulatory Standards Bill, to support successful implementation and the achievement of its policy objectives.
Regulatory Policy Design team
- Lead and contribute to the delivery of the central agency independent advice function, collaborating closely with colleagues responsible for the day-to-day operation of the regulatory impact analysis system. This will include:
- Engaging with policy agencies on key regulatory issues and options
- Providing advice to Ministers on significant proposals
- Supporting the development of systems and processes to facilitate the delivery of impactful advice.
As part of the broader Policy group, you will have an opportunity to contribute to a variety of work across the group and the wider Ministry. The roles operate in a complex and dynamic environment, requiring flexibility, sound judgement, and the ability to manage both fast-paced and long-term tasks while building effective relationships.
About you:
We are looking for someone who:
- Has a tertiary qualification (or equivalent government experience), with a background in public policy, law or economics being a bonus
- Has relevant experience in policy roles, preferably in regulatory policy
- Communicates complex issues clearly and effectively, both in writing and verbally
- Has strong knowledge of policy frameworks and methods, and machinery of government
- Demonstrates critical thinking, political acumen and incorporates government priorities into advice
- Has strategic thinking capabilities to identify long-term priorities for the policy area, and a systems-thinking approach to view policy issues in a broader context
- Builds strong relationships and works collaboratively within a team
- Displays personal integrity, sound judgement and attention to detail
- Understands and is committed to the impact regulation has on the lives of every New Zealander.
What we can offer you:
- The opportunity to apply and expand your knowledge of regulation, regulatory policy processes, the machinery of government and public sector management
- Be directly involved in a new central agency
- Work within a dedicated and supportive team that has a strong delivery focus, values diversity of thought and encourages knowledge sharing
- Growth in your transferable skills and knowledge that will benefit you throughout your policy career
- Flexible working options.
Please see the attached job description here: Senior Advisor, Policy
Salary range: $108,126 - $143,618 dependent on skills and experience.
How to apply:
Please click the 'Apply Now' button and provide all the required information. Be sure to indicate your preferred team as well as your area of interest or the type of work you are most passionate about.
Applications close on Sunday, 18 May 2025.
For any questions please contact: people@regulation.govt.nz
- Department
- Policy
- Role
- Policy
- Locations
- Wellington

Senior Advisor, Policy
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