Senior Policy Advisor

Discover a career with purpose at MBIE

• Shape the future of New Zealand’s science, innovation and technology system
• Work at the interface of science, business and government
• Engage with diverse stakeholders to turn ideas into impact
• Permanent full-time role | Wellington CBD
• Salary: $110K–$138K + KiwiSaver + Wellness Benefits

Tēnei tūranga - About the Role:

We’re looking for a Senior Policy Advisor to join our Innovation Policy Team – a passionate group working to enable world-class scientists, innovative businesses and entrepreneurs to transform bold ideas into commercial success that benefits Aotearoa New Zealand.

You’ll lead and contribute to policy advice on:

• Business research and development, including the R&D Tax Incentive
• Innovation grants and support programmes (e.g. Technology Incubator Programme)
• Institutional arrangements for delivering innovation support
• Identifying gaps and opportunities in New Zealand’s innovation ecosystem

This role sits within MBIE’s Technology and Innovation Branch, which drives growth in emerging sectors and supports the development of new businesses that will shape New Zealand’s future economy. You’ll collaborate across MBIE teams – including science policy, investment, and economic development – and engage with delivery partners, businesses, investors, and universities.

Ngā pukenga me ngā wheako e hiahiatia ana -

Skills and Experience Required
 

You’re a critical thinker and skilled communicator who thrives on complexity and collaboration. You bring strong policy experience and a track record of delivering high-quality advice. You’re motivated by impact and enjoy working with others to shape the future.

We’d love to hear from you if you:

• Are a critical thinker who can lead complex projects and deliver robust advice
• Build trusted relationships with diverse stakeholders, including Ministers, industry, and partner agencies
• Communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively
• Have some experience mentoring or coaching others
• Understand Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application in public policy and partnership with Māori
• Are adaptable, proactive, and solutions-focused

You must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a residence class visa.

Experience in science, innovation or economic development is a bonus – but not essential. What matters most is your ability to think strategically, influence outcomes, and work collaboratively.

Ētahi kōrero mō MBIE - About MBIE:

MBIE's goal is to create a resilient and high-performing economy that delivers real and ongoing quality of life for all New Zealanders.

We do this by working with others to create an environment that supports businesses to be more productive and internationally competitive, enables all New Zealanders to participate in the economy through improved job opportunities and by working to ensure quality housing is more affordable.

People are at the heart of our mahi, our way of working is guided by our values which shape our behaviours.

• Mahi Tahi – Better Together
• Māia – Bold and brave
• Pae Kahurangi – Build our Future
• Pono Me Te Tika – Own It

Our aspirations are echoed in our Māori identity – Hīkina Whakatutuki – which broadly means ‘lifting to make successful'.

MBIE recognises the partnership founded under Te Tiriti o Waitangi between Māori and the Crown and is committed to giving effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. We will do this through enduring, meaningful and effective partnerships with iwi, Māori, other Māori groups/organisations and the Crown, as this is critical to enable economic and social development, both for Māori and for wider Aotearoa New Zealand. We are committed to continuing to partner with iwi in order to find new sustainable solutions to address long standing systemic and cross-cutting issues facing Māori and wider Aotearoa New Zealand and we are also committed to identifying opportunities for iwi to lead and creating an enabling environment for iwi to leverage these opportunities.

E mōhio ana a Hīkina Whakatutuki i puea ake te kōtuinga I waenganui i a ngāi Māori me te Karauna i Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ā, kei te whai ia ki te whakaū ake i Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Mā te whai kiko o ngā kōtuinga ahungaroa o ngāi wi, o ngāi Māori, me ētahi atu rōpū Māori ki te Karauna, katutuki tēnei. He āhuatanga nui tēnei e āhei ai ngā mahi whanaketanga ā-ohanga, ā-pāpori hoki ki a ngāi Māori me Aotearoa whānui. E whai tonu ana mātou ki te kōtui atu ki ngā iwi mō te rapu huarahi hou ki te whakaara i ngā kaupapakua roa nei e tāmi ana i a ngāi Māori me Aotearoa whānui, ā, e whai ana hoki ki te tautohu i ngā āheinga kōkiritanga mā ngā iwi, me te tautoko i ngā iwi kia whai mana ake ai ēnei āheinga.

Me pēhea te tono - How to Apply:

Click here to view a position description. All applications must be submitted via our online process and include a Cover Letter and CV outlining your interest and suitability for the role. 

Email Jackie Johnson at jackie.johnson@mbie.govt.nz quoting ref MBIE/17165 if you have any further questions.

Applications close on 26th October 2025 at 11.59pm.