Director Office of Director-General

Be the strategic right-hand to the Director-General, translating vision into action across DOC and beyond.Drive internal governance excellence, ensuring alignment, accountability, and performance.Wellington location. Fixed term/ Secondment, January 2026 – February 2027Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao TūroaThe Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.Mō te tūranga | About the roleWe are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director for the Office of the Director-General to cover a parental leave period. This is a unique opportunity to work closely with the Director-General, providing strategic leadership, fostering strong relationships, and proactively identifying and managing risks. You will play a key role in helping the Director-General maintain a deliberate and focused approach to her priorities.In this role, you will also engage with the wider Senior Leadership Team and act as a vital connector, facilitating meaningful engagement with Ministers, iwi, government agencies, conservation partners, and communities.This position suits someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys working across a broad and diverse portfolio. It demands versatility, balancing leadership and support, process and agility, strategic foresight and day-to-day responsiveness, thoughtful inquiry and decisive action.As Director, you will lead a small, high-performing team within the Office of the Director-General. This experienced group brings a range of backgrounds and expertise, enabling the Director-General to focus her time where it has the greatest impact.Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experienceReporting to the Director-General, you will be visible, open, engaging, proactive, and agile. You will be known for moving towards problems and challenges without putting up boundaries or assuming someone else is responsible.We are looking for someone who has the following skills and experience;Proven experience leading or supporting senior management in large and complex organisations.A reputation as a capable, can-do, well organised and trusted professional.Strong stakeholder engagement skills and experience within government, public sector, and community groups.Knowledge of Cabinet and Ministerial processes and procedures.Experience leading people and teams at a fast paced, demanding environment.Politically savvy and understanding of the machinery of government.Expertise in strategic planning, financial management, and budgeting processes.Demonstrated understanding of Māori Tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.Click here for the Role DescriptionHe aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. You can learn more about what we offer here.Our ValuesAt The Department of Conservation, everyone’s journey is unique. This is a place where nature thrives because people do. Where your growth fuels our purpose. We are guided by values that matter:Integrity, because trust and honesty are non-negotiable.Empowerment, because when we lift each other, we all rise higher.Connection, because collaboration sparks progress.Achievement, because results mean more when they create real impact.Tonoa inaiānei | Apply nowApply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai, Department of Conservation. If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.The fixed package salary range for this role is between $175,200 - $251,850. Actual appointment will reflect relevant skills and experience.You are encouraged to discuss secondment opportunities with your leader. Secondments should offer the opportunity to build capability in line with your development plan. You must seek the support of your leader in writing before applying for a secondment opportunity and attach it to your application.You must have the right to work in New Zealand and be able to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday, 03 November 2025.Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please feel free to contact Aleena Antony, Senior Recruitment Advisor at aantony@doc.govt.nz.