Principal Advisor, HR - Wellington
Help shape the future of Education
We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes
Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.
About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga
We have 2 Principal Advisor HR permanent full-time roles available.
The newly established Principal Advisor HR role is a key position in the Ministry’s HR advisory team. They use their in-depth knowledge of all areas of HR, their understanding of the business, and their strong and trusted relationships to provide targeted and influential advice to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
The Principal Advisor supports the Manager to ensure the right kind of HR advice and support services are provided at the right time and in the right way.
This role is also responsible for coaching and mentoring junior members in the team through more complex advice provision, enabling the team to grow and for issues to be proactively and effectively resolved in the most efficient way.
For more details about the role, you can view the job description here.
About you | Mōhou ake
As an established senior HR generalist operating at Principal level, you will be looking for the opportunity to join a team and make a difference through the provision of advice and solutions to stakeholders across the ministry. You will bring:
Proven HR Generalist experience with significant experience operating at a senior level as a business partner or similar
Ability to demonstrate deep knowledge and practical expertise across two or more technical areas of HR generalist portfolios such as Employment relations, Performance, Change Management
Proven experience building effective relationships with stakeholders, including at senior leadership level with the ability to work well with union partners a required
In-depth knowledge of employment legislation with proven experience of managing ER cases, including those of a more complex nature, and comfort in dealing with union partners as required
Experience in leading and/or directing work of others to achieve results is ideal but not essential
The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
You’ll be:
An effective listener and communicator with the proven ability to be able to communicate advice in succinct, clear and appropriate manner for a range of audiences both verbally and in writing
Someone who doesn’t shy away from challenging conversation and you love the chance to influence and coach
Comfortable and adept in managing competing demands and stakeholder management
A relationship focused operator with an enjoyment of supporting capability growth in others
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
Te Pou Rangatōpū | Corporate group is responsible for delivering essential Ministry-wide statutory and corporate functions. We enable the organisation to operate effectively and help fulfil the statutory and reporting obligations of Te Tāhuhu.
The Employee Services team is responsible for providing first line Human Resources advice and support, administering Ministry payroll processes, general and complex advice to people leaders including specialist employment relations advice. They manage industrial relations for the Ministry across five collective employment agreements and Ministry pay equity claims. They also provide specialist advice on remuneration and ensure our people policies are current and reflect best practice.
Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?
If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.
For further information, please contact Jenn Dawson, Manager Advisory Services: jenn.dawson@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight – Friday 28 March 2025.
We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.
