Principal Advisor, Policy

About ACC

ACC is a reputable and high-performing organization focused on care, supporting recovery, and promoting injury prevention for the future.

Role Overview

As Principal Advisor, Policy, you will deliver strategic policy guidance and lead analysis on a broad range of complex, significant issues impacting ACC and the Accident Compensation Scheme. Working alongside leadership including the Head of Policy, Evidence and Insights, Policy Manager, and Public Sector Engagement Manager, you will influence policy development, contribute to strategic projects, and provide expert advice to senior leaders, Ministers, the ACC Board and other key stakeholders. This permanent, full-time position is based in Wellington within the Policy, Evidence and Insights team.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate policy advice that shapes ACC's future direction.
• Address complex, high-stakes issues with visibility across ACC, government, and the broader public sector.
• Collaborate within a team that fosters strategic insight, curiosity, and data-driven decision-making.

Qualifications and Experience

• Extensive experience providing policy advice on complex, high-impact matters in government, regulatory, or similarly intricate environments.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving aptitudes, able to synthesize complicated information to develop practical recommendations.
• Proven expertise in stakeholder engagement, influencing, and managing relationships across organizational and sector divisions.
• Exceptional communication skills for conveying complex ideas clearly and persuasively in both oral and written forms.
• Sound judgement and political awareness, with experience handling sensitive or urgent high-profile issues.
• Knowledge of government machinery, public sector frameworks, and the legislative and regulatory context relevant to ACC.

Working at ACC

• Supportive employee networks for diverse backgrounds.
• Flexible work arrangements that accommodate individual and organizational needs.
• A commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects Aotearoa New Zealand’s cultures and promotes equity.

Additional Information

This role requires eligibility to work in New Zealand.

Salary Range: $117,787 to $152,431 with an additional 9% superannuation contribution. ACC offers comprehensive benefits including favorable superannuation options with no mandatory employee contributions, optional life and income protection insurance, and flexible plan changes to secure financial wellbeing now and into retirement.

Application Details

Applicants should submit a CV and cover letter highlighting their suitability and key strengths. Please include a specific example of navigating a complex policy issue and your impact on its resolution.

Applications will be accepted until 11:50 pm Sunday, 18 October 2026, though shortlisting may occur earlier if a strong candidate emerges. Applications must be submitted via ACC's careers website. For accessibility concerns or inquiries, contact hrhelp@acc.co.nz quoting the job ID.