Senior Engagement Advisor
Ministry of Education New Zealand
Wellington, Wellington Region, New Zealand · Full Time
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- Experience
- Any
- Salary
- NZD 101,296 – NZD 122,490 / year
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 1 week ago
- Work mode
- In office
- Resume
- Required to apply
Where you'll work
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Job description
About the Role
The Ministry of Education in New Zealand is seeking a Senior Engagement Advisor for a permanent, full-time position based in Wellington or anywhere in Aotearoa New Zealand. This role involves conducting objective, trauma-informed reviews of sensitive claims related to historic abuse or neglect in state schools. The advisor will gather relevant background information, conduct interviews with claimants in person or online, and produce thorough written reports to support informed decisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Handle sensitive and sometimes difficult discussions with empathy, discretion, and professionalism.
- Apply trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and dignity-enhancing engagement practices in all interactions.
- Produce accurate, detailed reports aligned with the Ministry's claim review policies.
- Provide well-considered advice to assist senior decision-making.
- Maintain precise workflow records, documentation, and case files within all systems and databases.
- Share expertise with colleagues and contribute to continual improvement within the Sensitive Claims Group.
Required Skills and Experience
- Extensive experience in establishing trusted relationships within complex situations.
- Proven ability to manage sensitive conversations with professionalism and empathy.
- Knowledge and experience in trauma-informed practices and working with vulnerable populations.
- Experience engaging effectively with Māori or Pasifika communities, iwi, hapū, or whānau groups.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills suitable for diverse stakeholders.
- Strong analytical and technical writing abilities, including interpreting complex or legal information.
- Background in social work, counselling, or related fields is desirable.
- Familiarity with the public sector and education system machinery is a plus but not essential.
- Commitment to uphold the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
About the Team
The Sensitive Claims team leads the Ministry’s efforts to address claims of historic abuse or neglect in state or residential special schools. They ensure claims are handled respectfully and that claimants and their whānau remain central throughout the process. The team collaborates closely with the Crown Response Office and other government redress entities following Royal Commission recommendations.
This team falls under Te Pou Taunaki | Learning Support group, responsible for leadership across national and regional learning support services.
Application Details
Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume detailing their values, motivations, strengths, skills, and perspectives. The closing date for applications is midnight, Wednesday 9 September 2026. Adjustments for recruitment process accessibility can be requested. For queries, contact the Manager Sensitive Claims via email.
Salary
The salary range for this role is NZD 101,296 to 122,490 annually plus KiwiSaver contributions. The final salary will correspond to individual experience and competencies.