Senior Adviser

Role overview

Biosecurity New Zealand is seeking a Senior Adviser to help deliver the National Wilding Conifer Control Programme. This position sits within the Pest Management Programmes Group, which is responsible for major national initiatives that safeguard New Zealand’s environment, economy, and way of life from long-established pests and diseases.

The role calls for someone who can assess complicated matters and translate them into practical, well-structured advice. You will work across central and local government, alongside programme partners, to strengthen delivery, reporting, and monitoring. A key part of the job is creating and maintaining effective systems and processes so work is carried out efficiently and information is accurate, timely, and useful.

Key responsibilities

• Work with central and local government teams to support successful programme delivery.
• Coordinate activities and outcomes with a broad group of programme partners and stakeholders.
• Set up and maintain reliable systems and processes that improve delivery efficiency.
• Make sure information produced is accurate, timely, and fit for its intended purpose.
• Handle public enquiries and prepare ministerial advice and correspondence.
• Support programme and system performance tracking, measurement, and reporting.
• Manage contracts and prepare financial reporting.
• Build and sustain productive relationships with partner organisations and stakeholders.
• Work with programme partners and assist regional councils with planning.
• Help assess the programme and identify improvements to work delivery.
• Contribute to ongoing enhancements in delivery processes and systems.
• Support the Team Manager with analysis, reporting, advice, and collaborative delivery.

What you will bring

You will need sound judgement, a strategic mindset, and confidence working with a wide variety of stakeholders. You should also be comfortable adapting as priorities and the work environment change.

• Background in central government, including responding to ministerial enquiries and preparing reports for senior leaders.
• Proven ability to write clear, concise briefings and governance papers.
• Experience managing contracts and external supplier or provider relationships.
• Strong relationship management skills across central and local government, iwi, industry, and community groups.
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement, with the ability to prioritise and plan for the long term.
• Capability to work through complex issues and improve delivery continuously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and work collaboratively.
• Experience in project or programme delivery, including monitoring, reporting, and risk management.
• A tertiary qualification in a relevant field, or equivalent practical experience.

Team environment

The role is ideally based in Wellington and joins a committed team spread across Christchurch, Nelson, Wellington, and Auckland. The team works closely with regional councils, DOC, industry bodies, landowners, community trusts, and other government groups to achieve effective pest management outcomes. Regular collaboration, travel to field sites, and involvement in strategic planning and ministerial decision-making are part of the work.

About MPI

The Ministry for Primary Industries partners with New Zealand’s food and fibre sector to support the country’s reputation as a trusted source of high-value food and fibre products.

Salary and employment details

This is a permanent full-time position located in Wellington CBD. The salary band is General Salary Range D, from $100,934 to $118,005, depending on skills and experience.

Benefits

• Extra MPI leave days.
• Annual wellness payment.
• Twice-yearly paid eye testing, plus help towards the cost of corrective lenses and frames.

Additional information

The organisation is committed to working as a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including close engagement with iwi, hapū, whānau, and hāpori. Applications are welcomed from people of all backgrounds and identities, and the organisation aims to be an inclusive workplace for everyone.

When applying, candidates should include a cover letter that explains their background, values, motivation for the role, and the strengths, abilities, and perspectives they would bring, including those developed outside the workforce.

Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it.

Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday 5 July 2026. For questions about the role, contact Olivia Murphy by email.

Reference note: the role description and online application are available through the employer’s careers site.