Job Description
Full job description
Are you a regulatory enthusiast with a deep knowledge of regulatory practice?
Do you have a real passion for driving meaningful change across the public sector?
Join us to lead initiatives to uplift regulatory capability and set the standards.
About the Ministry for Regulation
The Ministry for Regulation is a small government agency with a big job to do.
We’re focused on lifting quality across all regulatory systems and supporting agencies with regulatory responsibilities to align with good practice. We want it to be easier for businesses to innovate, grow and comply, while still ensuring the benefits from regulation that we take for granted won’t change.
We are a small group of dedicated professionals, working in a 'can do' environment.
About the Team
The Regulatory System Capability team works to enhance the capability of regulators across New Zealand by:
Designing and delivering initiatives that empower regulatory leaders and practitioners
Developing practical tools and guidance to strengthen regulatory systems
Connecting local and international networks to share knowledge and best practices
We operate in a collaborative, innovative and engaging environment, tackling complex challenges with creativity and expertise.
About the Role
We are looking for a Principal Advisor to join our Regulatory System Capability team. This is an influential role, delivering intellectual leadership across the public sector to help lift the capability of those who design, deliver and govern regulation at a system level.
You will:
Lead complex initiatives: From concept to evaluation, you’ll shape and deliver projects that build and enhance regulatory capability.
Lead with insight and impact: Apply innovative thinking to complex regulatory challenges and mentor team members while setting the benchmark for excellence by assessing systems against good regulatory practice and developing tools and guidance that drive continuous improvement.
Influence and collaborate: Engage with senior leaders across regulatory agencies and the wider public sector (e.g. Crown entities, departmental organisations, and local government), to foster change and share best practices.
Drive knowledge sharing: Facilitate workshops and engagements, ensuring meaningful outcomes for stakeholders and the Ministry, while promoting knowledge exchange and learning across the regulatory sector.
You may be called upon to work across the broader business group and Ministry, supporting resourcing needs and providing your expertise to enable delivery in a range of contexts.
Please click here for the job description: Principal Advisor, Reviews and System Capability
About You
You’re a regulatory expert with:
Regulatory passion: A self-identified regulatory nerd with over 10 years of experience in regulatory policy, guidance, or practice.
Excellent written and verbal communication: Able to translate complex concepts into clear, accessible products.
Analytical thinking: Bring a proactive, problem-solving mindset and strong analytical acumen, confidently navigating complexity and ambiguity to assess regulatory frameworks, systems, and organisational settings, and deliver practical, high-impact solutions.
Leadership ability: Proven experience leading projects and providing thought and task leadership in collaborative environments.
Deep expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of regulatory practice, frameworks, and theory, with the ability to distinguish between good and bad approaches.
Relationship builder: Skilled at fostering meaningful relationships across all levels, influencing senior leaders, and engaging with diverse stakeholders.
Fun and collaborative spirit: A team player who thrives in a dynamic, innovative environment.
What we can offer you
Opportunity to shape regulatory practice at a system level: Work on big, complex challenges that impact multiple sectors.
Be part of a small, dynamic team: Collaborate with highly skilled professionals in a central agency with real influence.
Opportunity for professional growth: Develop expertise in regulatory practice, system design, and public sector leadership.
Make a tangible impact: Your work will help agencies strengthen their regulatory capability, improve decision-making, and ultimately deliver better outcomes for New Zealanders.
Salary range: $127,142 - $168,973 dependent on skills and experience.
How to apply
Please click the 'Apply Now' button and provide all the necessary information.
Applications close on Monday, 20 October 2026
