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

Shape the future of finance, commercial and strategic decision-making across one of New Zealand's largest and most impactful public sector organisations
A newly established leadership role reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Permanent, full-time hours, Wellington-based

As part of the Ministry's ongoing transformation programme and the establishment of a new Finance, Commercial and Property function, we're looking for an exceptional leader to join our senior leadership team as a Group Finance and Commercial Lead. This is a newly created role reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer and partnering closely with Deputy Secretaries, General Managers and senior leaders across the Ministry.

This is more than a traditional finance leadership role. Leading a team of finance professionals, you will provide strategic financial leadership, commercial insight and trusted business partnering to influence decisions that shape the future direction and performance of the Ministry.

Working closely with Deputy Secretaries, General Managers and leadership teams, you will deliver strategic financial, commercial and investment advice that supports informed decision-making and strong organisational outcomes.

What you'll do:

Act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders and executive teams providing strong financial stewardship and strategic insight
Lead strategic financial planning, forecasting and performance management
Provide insights and strategic advice on major investments, business cases, commercial opportunities and organisational priorities
Translate complex financial information into clear strategic advice
Build strong partnerships across the Ministry and wider public sector
Lead and develop a high-performing team of finance professionals
Identify emerging financial and commercial risks and support leaders to make informed decisions
Help drive the next phase of finance transformation, capability uplift and continuous improvement.

Salary range: $142,856 - $214,284 per annum plus 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 here.

About you | Mōhou ake

This is a rare opportunity to help shape and embed a new finance leadership model across the Ministry.

You will play a key role in helping shape the Ministry's future operating model, supporting leaders to make informed decisions about strategy, investment, service delivery and organisational performance. As the Ministry embeds service-based accountability, multi-year planning and a strengthened business partnering approach, you will be at the centre of some of our most important conversations.

You'll be joining at a time of significant transformation, with the chance to:

Shape how finance partners with the business
Influence major strategic decisions
Work across a diverse and complex portfolio
Lead high-performing teams through change
Contribute to an organisation focused on delivering equitable and excellent outcomes for learners
Display the ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

You'll bring:

Significant senior finance leadership experience in a large, complex organisation
Experience influencing executive-level decision-making
Strong financial planning, analysis and business partnering capability
Commercial and investment management experience
Proven people leadership, relationship management and team development skills
The ability to navigate ambiguity, complexity and change
A relevant tertiary qualification and Chartered Accountant (or equivalent) professional membership.

If you're looking for a role that combines strategic influence, people leadership and the opportunity to leave a lasting impact, we'd love to hear from you.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

This is an opportunity to help shape the future direction of a newly established Finance, Commercial and Property function at a pivotal time for the Ministry.

You'll work alongside talented and committed colleagues, contribute to decisions that matter nationally, and play a key role in strengthening financial stewardship, commercial performance and strategic decision-making across the organisation.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your Resume and Cover Letter by using the ‘Apply Now' 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.

If you require further information, please contact Fiona Ramson, Senior Recruitment Advisor at: fiona.ramson@education.govt.nz

Applications close 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 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.

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Group Finance and Commercial Lead - Wellington