Principal Advisor - Commissioning

Ko wai mātou | About us

Our purpose is to shift the system using data and evidence, so that the system invests earlier and more effectively to improve the lives of New Zealanders. We focus our efforts on where we can make the greatest impact to lead, and we collaborate with agencies and stakeholders to shine a light on policy issues that fall between the gaps. As a central government agency, our people are our centre. They’re curious, agile and hardworking, and instinctively care about the wellbeing of others. We are committed to a safe and inclusive workplace and we value the diversity everyone brings. We embrace our diverse workforce and culture, and we support flexible working arrangements.

We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of gender identity, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or religion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process

Kōrero mō te tūranga | About the role

We are currently seeking a Commissioning Principal Advisor to join our Investment & Commissioning team in Wellington. This is a high-impact, strategic leadership role at the heart of the public service, influencing outcomes that improve lives.

As the Commissioning Principal Advisor, you’ll:

• Provide technical leadership and coaching across strategic commissioning and operational best practice.
• Lead cross-agency initiatives and support complex service design, procurement, and performance monitoring.
• Drive the use of evidence, data, population insights, and policy understanding to inform strategic investment planning and portfolio performance reporting.
• Oversee commissioning frameworks, contract management, and continuous improvement processes.
• Support risk identification, mitigation, and project leadership within a dynamic operating environment.
• Build strong relationships with iwi, Māori organisations, community partners, and government agencies.

He kōrero mōu | About you

• Proven experience in leading and developing commissioning practice, and public sector programme leadership.
• Strong background in strategic investment planning, service co-design, and performance-based contracting and portfolio performance reporting.
• Confidence in navigating ambiguous and complex environments with political and cultural sensitivity.
• Deep understanding of te Tiriti o Waitangi, and an ability to integrate Te Ao Māori and mātauranga Māori concepts into commissioning practice.
• Proficient in M365, project management, and collaboration tools (e.g. JIRA, Confluence, SharePoint).

Utu ā-tau | Salary

Band 19: $148 878 - $175 150 – $210 180 - Salaries are based on skills and experiences, and generally made between $148 878 and $175 150

Tono mai | How to Apply

To apply for this role please click the ‘Apply Now’ button and follow the online process. To view a copy of the position description please click here - 

Applications close at 11.59pm on Tuesday, 14th October 2025; however, we will review applications as they come in and may invite people to interview before the close date. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if an ideal person is found before the close date. 

 If you have any questions, please email peopleandculture@sia.govt.nz. We look forward to receiving your application.