Group Manager Policy (6-month secondment / fixed term)

• A rare opportunity to lead at Group Manager level in a high‑impact policy role.
• Exposure to senior decision‑making and Ministerial processes at Tier 3.
• The chance to lead and influence a significant and meaningful programme of work.

We are seeking an experienced senior policy leader to take up a six‑month inter‑agency secondment or fixed‑term contract as Group Manager Policy, leading the policy function through a period of sustained, high‑priority delivery. This role will be based in Wellington and will report directly to the Deputy Chief Executive, Policy, Legal and Strategy.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga mahi

This Tier 3 position, will provide strategic leadership across the policy function, ensuring the delivery of robust, timely and well‑evidenced policy advice to Ministers and senior leaders.

You will be responsible for leading policy work end‑to‑end — from early problem definition and policy design through to Cabinet and Ministerial decision‑making and implementation planning. The role involves close engagement with Ministers’ offices, central agencies and key stakeholders across the public sector.

This secondment comes at a particularly busy period, with a significant programme of policy work underway. You will need to be comfortable operating at pace, balancing multiple priorities, and supporting your leadership team to deliver to high standards.

This role will suit an established Policy Manager at Tier 4 (or equivalent) who is ready to step up into a Tier 3 leadership role, or an experienced policy leader seeking a short‑term secondment opportunity at Group Manager level.

About you | Ko wai koe

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate…

• Strong policy leadership experience, including leading teams of managers and senior policy practitioners.
• Proven experience working with and liaising with Ministers, Ministers’ offices, and senior officials.
• A track record of leading policy work from start to finish, including:
• policy design and options development
• Cabinet and Ministerial papers
• advice on implementation and delivery
• The ability to operate confidently in complex, politically sensitive environments.
• Strong people leadership capability, including coaching, performance management and developing future leaders.
• Excellent judgement, communication and stakeholder‑management skills.

Why consider this secondment or fixed term…

• A rare opportunity to lead at Group Manager level in a high‑impact policy role.
• Exposure to senior decision‑making and Ministerial processes at Tier 3.
• Ideal as a developmental step‑up opportunity for aspiring Group Managers.
• The chance to lead and influence a significant and meaningful programme of work. 

How to apply | Me pehea te whakauru

To express your interest online please apply now by submitting a CV and cover letter that demonstrates your ability to meet the competencies required for the role as outlined in the position description. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Suzanne Leahy (Senior Recruitment Advisor) at [email protected]

Prior to submitting your application, please discuss your interest with your manager so you have their support to be released for the secondment period. 

Applications close 11pm, Sunday 1 March 2026.

New Zealand Customs Service | Te Mana Ārai o Aotearoa is a member of Diversity Works New Zealand and is committed to developing a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities and welcome applications from everyone who can meet the requirements of the role. We also offer flexible working arrangements.