Engagement Lead

About Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children

Oranga Tamariki is dedicated to prioritizing the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi, upholding key values such as placing tamariki first, valuing aroha, respecting the mana of individuals, acting with integrity, honoring whakapapa, and recognizing that oranga is a continual journey. Their commitment is to make New Zealand the best country for children and to work in true partnership with hapū, iwi and Māori organisations to develop appropriate solutions for tamariki in need.

About the Role

The Engagement Lead position is a fixed-term contract valid until 30 June 2027. It provides an opportunity to be based in one of several locations including Te Tai Tokerau, Auckland, or Wellington. This role is integral to advancing Māori partnerships within the Māori Partnerships and Communities group by fostering trust and collaboration between Oranga Tamariki, iwi, hapū, whānau and kaupapa Māori organisations. The goal is to support returning tamariki Māori in State Care to their whānau, hapū and iwi grounded in cultural connections, and to prevent tamariki Māori from entering State Care.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and nurture strong, effective partnerships with iwi, hapū, whānau, and kaupapa Māori organisations.
• Navigate complex stakeholder landscapes providing trusted guidance that aligns with shared objectives.
• Lead and coordinate co-design initiatives from planning stages to commissioning, execution, and growth.
• Ensure successful delivery of partnership plans including adherence to milestones, reporting, communications, and timelines.
• Encourage innovation and collaboration to transform care and community services in partnership with Māori entities.
• Support change management processes to embed new services and working methods.
• Identify strategic opportunities and risks and provide advice to aid organisational decision-making.
• Champion Mana Tamaiti principles contributing to culturally responsive practices within the organisation.

Candidate Profile

• Experienced in building and sustaining influential relationships with iwi, hapū, whānau, and community stakeholders.
• Deep knowledge of Te Ao Māori, tikanga, and cultural concepts including Mana Tamaiti, Manaakitanga, Whakamana Tangata, Mana Whenua, and Mana Motuhake.
• Comfortable engaging within environments enriched by mātauranga Māori and te reo Māori.
• Experienced in leading complex projects including planning, implementation, reporting, and risk management.
• Proven ability to facilitate collaboration, co-design, and change across multiple stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, capable of building trust and managing complexity.
• Familiarity with social service delivery, community-led initiatives, and contemporary issues affecting tamariki, rangatahi and whānau.
• Previous experience in public, social services, health, education, or community sectors.
• Understanding of government systems, policy environments, and partnership frameworks.
• A tertiary qualification in a relevant field or equivalent experience.

Compensation and Benefits

Annual salary ranges from $125,926 to $139,459 based on experience, with a step-based remuneration package offering annual progression. Employees enjoy flexible working conditions, supportive and value-driven teams, ongoing learning opportunities, a strong focus on wellbeing, and the chance to effect meaningful change for tamariki and whānau throughout Aotearoa.

Additional Information

This is a highly relationship-driven position requiring confidence in both Te Ao Māori and governmental settings, balancing visionary strategy with operational excellence. The role is fixed term until 30 June 2027 and can be based in Te Tai Tokerau, Auckland, or Wellington.

The organisation champions diversity and is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace enabling all employees to succeed.

Application Details: Interested candidates should apply online with a CV and cover letter. Existing employees should apply using their Oranga Tamariki email. For inquiries, contact [email protected]. Applications close at midnight on Sunday 16 August.

Code of Conduct: Applicants should familiarize themselves with the organisation’s Code of Conduct which requires employees to be present at work free from drugs and alcohol.