Principal Advisor – Māori Crown Relations Capability

About the Role

This permanent, full-time position is based in Wellington and focuses on developing Stats NZ's capacity to work effectively with Māori. As the Principal Advisor – Māori Crown Relations Capability, you will lead strategic and technical efforts to enhance organizational capability in fulfilling Māori Crown Relations responsibilities. Your initiatives will align with Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Te Puni Kōkiri's Māori Crown Relations Capability Framework, and Maihi Karauna.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and guidance to strengthen Stats NZ’s Māori Crown Relations capabilities across the organization.
• Collaborate closely with Kaihautū, senior leadership, and external partners to prioritize capability investments.
• Lead enterprise-wide capability programs and learning initiatives to integrate te reo Māori, tikanga Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te ao Māori into organizational practices.
• Manage and mentor the Senior Trainer – Māori Capability, supporting day-to-day leadership and capability growth.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Fluency in te reo Māori with the ability to communicate confidently and establish credibility in Māori contexts.
• Comprehensive knowledge and practical use of tikanga Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te ao Māori.
• In-depth understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Crown obligations, and Māori Crown relations within the public sector.
• Minimum of five years’ senior experience in capability, people, or talent roles, specifically in delivering Māori capability programs to adult learners.
• Proven experience designing and leading strategic learning programs both online and face-to-face.
• Demonstrated ability to provide high-level strategic advice and influence senior leaders effectively.
• Experience collaborating with Māori, iwi, hapū, and other Tiriti partners.
• Strong expertise in program, change, and stakeholder management to achieve outcomes on schedule and within budget.
• Ability to apply strategic and systems thinking to identify priorities, manage risks, and focus investments for maximum impact.
• Operate impartially within the public service while maintaining commitment to improved outcomes for Māori.
• Relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience; Te Taura Whiri Level Finder assessment or kaumātua endorsement is advantageous.

About Stats NZ

Stats NZ (Tatauranga Aotearoa) serves as the National Statistics Office, providing critical data and insights that influence governmental, community, and business decisions. The organization values diverse perspectives and works to deliver equitable data access that supports improved social, economic, and environmental outcomes for Aotearoa New Zealand.

Why Join Us?

• Work a 37.5-hour week with a full-time permanent contract.
• Benefit from 15 days of sick leave, applicable for you or those in your care.
• Receive three additional leave days during the annual office closure period.
• Access health services including flu vaccinations, Employee Assistance Programme, and corporate discounts on various products.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.

Additional Information

The salary range for this position is NZD 119,795 to 140,935 plus KiwiSaver contributions. The recruitment process includes possible pre-interview screening via phone or video and mandatory background checks. Candidates must hold a valid work permit or visa to reside and work in New Zealand. Recruitment agencies are requested not to submit unsolicited CVs.

Desired Attributes

• Integrity and accountability in actions, even when faced with difficulties.
• Focus on delivering meaningful outcomes and understanding the purpose behind your work.
• Curiosity and openness to learning, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.
• Build respectful, inclusive relationships founded on care and collaboration.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams to achieve shared goals.