Policy Director – Resource Markets

About the role

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is seeking a senior Policy Director to lead policy and regulatory work for New Zealand's resource markets, including minerals, oil and gas, geothermal and hydrogen. This permanent role is based in Wellington CBD and offers the chance to shape strategic direction across a multi‑portfolio, whole‑of‑government portfolio.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of policy and regulatory frameworks for the resource sector.
• Support the General Manager and collaborate with the leadership team to deliver on key policy and operational priorities.
• Provide thought leadership on complex, multi‑sector and international issues.
• Partner with senior managers to build capability across the Resource Markets branch.
• Ensure consistency and quality of policy advice and operational practices.
• Engage with Ministers, senior government officials, industry and iwi stakeholders.
• Operate within a high‑priority regulatory environment and drive economic growth through market regulation.

Required profile

• Significant senior‑level experience leading policy work, especially in regulatory and strategic contexts.
• Established relationships at senior levels across government, industry and iwi.
• Confidence engaging with Ministers and senior decision‑makers.
• Deep knowledge of the resources sector or transferable experience from related sectors.
• Expertise in regulatory design and economic growth, preferably in a market regulation setting.

Required skills

What we offer

• Permanent position with a salary band of $193,289 – $241,611 (midpoint) plus wellness benefits.
• Opportunity to influence New Zealand’s energy security and resource value.
• Location in Wellington CBD with the possibility of secondments.
• Senior‑level career progression within a high‑impact public sector environment.