Job Description
Mo te turanga mahi | About the role
Join us in shaping a flourishing environment for every generation. We are seeking an experienced and inspiring PMO Lead to help drive transformational change within the Planning System Transformation Programme. This is a pivotal role that ensures programme excellence, governance strength, and delivery confidence across a high-profile, complex, and multi-year programme of work. This is a fixed term role until 11 December 2026.
As the PMO Lead, you will establish and lead a high-performing Programme Management Office. You will embed robust programme and project management standards, enable strong governance, and provide transparent, high-quality reporting that supports evidence-based decision-making. Your leadership will help ensure that benefits are realised, risks are well managed, and the programme maintains momentum across its strategic priorities.
You will work closely with the Programme Director and senior leadership, providing trusted insights, assurance, and strategic advice. You'll also build capability across the programme, championing continuous improvement while strengthening delivery disciplines and stakeholder confidence. A deep understanding of Te Ao Maori, te Tiriti o Waitangi, and how to appropriately provide for Matauranga Maori in programme work is essential.
Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experience
Extensive experience leading or operating in PMO, programme, or project governance environments.
Proven ability to establish and embed standards across multiple initiatives.
Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills at senior levels.
Expertise in project management methodologies (e.g. PRINCE2, MSP, Agile).
Strong analytical, reporting, and communication skills.
Demonstrated experience navigating ambiguity and operating with strong judgment.
Deep knowledge of government systems, the Treaty of Waitangi, and partnership expectations.
Experience delivering large-scale cross-government initiatives.
People leadership experience and the ability to develop capability in others.
Whanuitanga Utu a-Tau | Salary range
Salary range for this role is $201,261 to $243,868 pa. Appointment within this range will be based on skills and experience.
Nga hua ka puta i te mahi ki MfE | Benefits of working at MfE
a flexible working approach to embrace a healthy work-life blend
agile ways of working, allowing you variety and challenges across the organisation as we work as `One MfE'
active employee networks including Maori Ropu, Asian Network, Neurodivergent and Disability Networks, Women's Network, Tagata Moana (Pacific Peoples' Network), and Rainbow Network
opportunities for development and education.
Check out other benefits of joining us and hear what our people say about Working at MfE | Ministry for the Environment.
Tono inaianei | Apply now
Apply directly by completing the online application form and submit your CV and cover letter. Note: your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role.
If you require further information about this position please contact Sally Morison on [email protected]. The position description is available via our careers centre www.mfe.govt.nz/jobs.
The location for this role is flexible which means you can work anywhere in New Zealand and there is an option to work from home. As a flexible friendly employer, we are happy to discuss solutions that may work for you and the business. We value and care about enabling our people to work in a way that means they can work at their best.
We are committed to providing equal opportunities and actively strive to be a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. We are proud to be a Rainbow Tick and Gender Tick certified organisation and are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
We want to ensure any accessibility needs you may have are well supported, so the recruitment process is fair and equitable for all. Therefore, please let us know if there are any adjustments or support we can offer to make the recruitment process more accessible to you. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to discuss any accessibility needs you may have.
You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.
Note: for internal permanent kaimahi who are applying for a secondment, you must speak with your Manager before submitting your application.
Ra Katinga | Applications close: Sunday 8th March 2026 @ 5pm
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💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The PMO Lead position is now open for candidates interested in the Education Jobs sector. This role in Wellington offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Education Jobs is a plus.
