• Lead high‑impact policy work that shapes regulatory quality across government

• A senior role with scope to influence, guide others, and drive system‑wide outcomes

• Join a small, agile central agency with a big mission.

This is a full‑time permanent role, based in central Wellington.

About the Ministry for Regulation

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 Senior Advisor, Policy is a permanent full-time role within our Regulatory Stewardship team, part of the Ministry’s Policy Group.

The Policy Group’s core functions include:

• Overseeing the regulatory management system and providing strategic coordination

• Leading regulatory stewardship work across the public sector

• Managing the Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) system

• Providing second‑opinion advice on significant regulatory proposals across government.

This role is suited to an experienced policy professional who is comfortable operating at a senior level. You will lead and contribute to complex, cross‑cutting work, provide trusted advice, and support agencies to strengthen regulatory practice and stewardship.

You will work on issues that cut across multiple regulatory systems, requiring strong judgement, adaptability, and systems‑thinking. You will also work more broadly across the Policy Group and the Ministry as priorities evolve.

What you’ll be doing:

The focus of the role will change over time in response to Ministry and Ministerial priorities, but you can expect to:

• Provide clear, well‑reasoned advice on complex policy issues spanning multiple regulatory systems

• Support agencies in their regulatory stewardship responsibilities and build capability across the system

• Lead and contribute to the operation and ongoing development of the RIA system

• Develop high‑quality briefings, papers, and recommendations for senior leaders and decision‑makers

• Contribute to the design and implementation of policy frameworks, guidance, and regulatory processes

• Identify emerging trends and best practice, applying these insights to strengthen regulatory settings.

You will work in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment that balances immediate priorities with longer‑term system improvement, and that values strong relationships and collaboration.

What you’ll bring:

• 5+ years’ experience in public policy (or equivalent experience), ideally including exposure to regulatory policy or systems

• A tertiary qualification or equivalent experience; a background in public policy, law or economics is an advantage

• Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate complexity into practical, actionable advice

• A sound understanding of government policy processes, frameworks, and machinery of government

• Proven ability to build trusted relationships and work collaboratively across organisations

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence effectively

• The confidence to lead work independently while supporting and mentoring others

• A genuine interest in regulation and its impact on the lives of New Zealanders.

What we offer:

• The opportunity to work on high‑profile, system‑wide regulatory issues

• A collaborative, supportive environment where your expertise and judgement are valued

• Development of transferable skills and experience that will support a long‑term policy career

• Flexible working, ongoing professional development, and meaningful work with real impact.

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. While we acknowledge that AI can be helpful, please make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your own voice and experience.

Applications close on Wednesday, 8 April 2026.

For any questions please contact: people@regulation.govt.nz