Director, Office of the Deputy Secretary – Strategy

About the role

The Director, Office of the Deputy Secretary (Pou Whakatere) Strategy leads a small, high‑impact team at the heart of New Zealand's justice system. Working directly with the Deputy Secretary and senior leaders, you will shape system direction, strengthen performance and improve outcomes, especially for Māori.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a focused team delivering strategic advice, analysis and insight.
• Advise the Deputy Secretary and senior leaders on priorities, risks and opportunities.
• Integrate data, evaluation, sector insight and relationships to inform investment and performance decisions.
• Strengthen the Ministry's approach to Māori outcomes and partnership with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations.
• Provide oversight and assurance across Crown entity performance, sector priorities, system strategy and investment decisions.

Required profile

• Strategic, people‑centred leader thriving in complexity and ambiguity.
• Proven experience leading high‑performing teams in fast‑moving environments.
• Strong strategic judgement with experience shaping advice at senior or executive level.
• Ability to synthesize data, research and insight into clear, actionable advice.
• Deep experience working across government, policy or complex systems, preferably with justice or social sector outcomes.
• Highly developed relationship and influencing skills with senior stakeholders.
• Demonstrated commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi and improving outcomes for Māori.
• Confidence to act as both strategic thought partner and delivery leader.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence the direction of New Zealand's justice system at the highest level.
• Collaborative environment with senior government leaders and Māori partners.
• Leadership of a high‑impact team driving real change.