Help shape the future of Education
We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes
Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.
About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga
This is a full-time permanent role based in Wellington.
The Executive Assistant is a key role within Te Pou Rangatōpū, our Corporate group. You will be responsible for providing hands on executive support to the Hautū | Deputy Secretary, working with senior leaders and their support teams across the Group and the Ministry.
The role focuses on supporting the Hautū to have the right advice and information at the right time to deliver on our priorities, through effective liaison across our corporate teams, and with other groups across the Ministry.
This is an exciting opportunity to work at the heart of Te Pou Rangatōpū, providing high-quality executive support to the Hautū | Deputy Secretary. As a trusted partner, you'll play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the Deputy Secretary's office, enabling effective leadership across the Corporate Group and wider Ministry. Working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, you'll manage competing priorities, coordinate critical activities, and ensure the right information reaches the right people at the right time. Your ability to anticipate needs, exercise sound judgement, and build strong relationships will be key to supporting strategic and operational outcomes across the organisation.
Salary range: $75,815 - $91,347 per annum + KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.
For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description hereExecutive Assistant
About you | Mōhou ake
You will have proven successful experience in an Executive Assistant, PA or senior administrative role supporting senior leaders.
You are a highly organised and proactive Executive Assistant who thrives in a busy, complex environment. You bring excellent judgement, discretion, and the ability to stay one step ahead, ensuring senior leaders are equipped to focus on what matters most. Known for your professionalism and relationship-building skills, you enjoy working collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders and take pride in delivering exceptional support. You are adaptable, solutions-focused and calm under pressure, with a genuine commitment to service excellence.
You will also offer:
- Proven experience supporting senior executives or leaders in a complex organisation
- Exceptional diary, meeting and travel management skills
- Strong planning, coordination and organisational capability
- Excellent written communication skills, including drafting correspondence, briefings and presentations
- Sound judgement and the ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with discretion
- A proactive approach, with the confidence to anticipate needs and solve problems before they arise
- Outstanding relationship management skills and the ability to build credibility across all levels of an organisation
- Strong attention to detail while maintaining focus on competing priorities and deadlines
- Experience working within government, the public sector, or knowledge of the Machinery of Government would be advantageous
- Understanding of te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations and a commitment to working in ways that support Māori-Crown relationships
- Familiarity with tikanga Māori and confidence using basic te reo Māori in the workplace
- A customer-focused mindset, with a commitment to delivering high-quality support and service
- Resilience, professionalism and the ability to remain calm and effective under pressure
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
This role sits within a small team that provides business support to the Deputy Secretary and supports the smooth operations of the Corporate Group.
It’s an exciting time to join the team, as the Corporate Croup is evolving how it delivers its services to meet the challenges of our changing environment and business needs across the Ministry. The team has a key role in supporting continuous improvements across the corporate functions.
Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?
If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.
For further information, please contact Helen Allred, Director at helen.allred@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight Tuesday 20 October 2026.
We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.
