• Be at the centre of election‑year policy priorities
• Lead high‑profile programmes and initiatives during a critical period
• Rewarding and impactful work shaping policy for the next Parliamentary term

2026 is a pivotal election year, and with it comes a surge in demand for experienced policy professionals to support Ministers, agencies, and incoming priorities. If you’re considering your next career move, this is a unique opportunity to shape advice at a time when it matters most.

Mō te tūnga | About the Role
As Aotearoa New Zealand approaches the 2026 General Election, government agencies are preparing for a period of heightened activity, transition, and reform. This creates exciting opportunities for experienced policy professionals to contribute to election‑related priorities, support incoming Ministers, and help shape policy direction for the next Parliamentary term.

Our clients are seeking experienced Senior and Principal Policy Advisers to join high‑performing policy teams across central government. These roles offer the opportunity to work on complex and high‑profile initiatives, including manifesto implementation, Cabinet priorities, machinery of government changes, and policy reset work following the election.

You will be part of a dedicated policy team responsible for developing clear, evidence‑based advice in sensitive and fast‑moving environments. The roles also involve supporting Ministerial decision‑making during periods of change and mentoring less‑experienced staff to ensure high‑quality policy outcomes are delivered at pace.

In these roles, you will:

• Deliver high‑quality, election‑sensitive policy advice that supports Ministers and senior leaders
• Lead and contribute to priority policy programmes, often working across agencies
• Support transition, briefing, and implementation work before and after the election
• Mentor and support junior staff in a dynamic and pressured policy environment

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience
We are looking for adaptable, resilient, and experienced Senior and Principal Policy Advisers who thrive in fast‑paced, politically aware environments.

To succeed, you will have:

• A strong understanding of machinery of government, Cabinet processes, and Parliamentary systems
• Extensive experience across the policy development lifecycle, including problem definition, options analysis, regulatory impact assessment, and risk management
• A demonstrated ability to deliver high‑quality, timely policy advice in complex and high‑pressure environments
• Excellent written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly for Ministers and senior decision‑makers
• Experience leading policy projects, particularly those involving cross‑agency collaboration or time‑critical delivery
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence across diverse professional and technical groups
• Experience mentoring and supporting less‑experienced policy staff

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for You
These roles offer a rare opportunity to work at the heart of government during an election year and contribute to policy that will set direction for the next three years and beyond. You’ll join motivated, high‑calibre teams working on meaningful issues in a supportive and professional environment. In return, you’ll gain exposure to high‑profile work, professional development opportunities, and a competitive rewards package.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply
If you are interested, please apply now. For further details or to have a confidential kōrero, please email cindy.barthel@madison.co.nz.