Lead Adviser Disability - National Officeat Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections)124,578 - 175,875
Are you an experienced leader who can champion disability‑inclusive practice and influence system-wide improvement? We're looking for a passionate and strategic Lead Adviser, Disability to join the Office of the DCE Pae Ora and lead key initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for tāngata whaikaha Māori and disabled people across the Corrections system.
Mō te tūnga | About the roleImproving the wellbeing of New Zealanders and their whānau is a core government priority, including the one in four New Zealanders who identify as disabled. Experiences of disability vary widely, and this role recognises the importance of meeting people where they are.As Lead Adviser, Disability, you will work closely with the DCE Pae Ora to drive the implementation of Corrections' Disability Action Plan.
You will influence policy, support service improvement, and ensure Corrections remains aligned with sector-wide goals and expectations. A key part of the role is maintaining strong partnerships across the Disability sector, government agencies, and internal stakeholders.You will also lead and support a small, dedicated team working with disabled people and older persons in our care, ensuring they are well supported and connected in their mahi.We welcome candidates with lived experience of disability.
Key ResponsibilitiesLead the delivery of the Corrections Disability Action Plan 2023-2027 and ensure alignment with organisational strategy.Build strong partnerships across government, the disability sector, and advocacy groups.Provide specialist advice and thought leadership on disability issues, supporting inclusive policies and practice across Corrections.Lead and mentor a team of four direct reports, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.Track, monitor, and report on progress toward key milestones and outcomes.Champion the rights and wellbeing of disabled people and support compliance with legislative and human rights frameworks.
About YouExpertise in disability advocacy, practice change, or policy implementation, with strong knowledge of relevant frameworks (e.g., UNCRPD).An understanding of the barriers disabled people face within the justice system.Outstanding relationship management skills and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including Māori and Pasifika communities.A strong commitment to improving outcomes for disabled people in custodial environments.Proven experience leading and developing staff, with the ability to build an inclusive, positive team culture.
Utu ā-tau | SalaryThe salary midpoint for this role is $146,562. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role. Ko wai mātou | About usAra Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections) Health Services lead the delivery of patient-focused primary health care services to tangata within corrections facilities across Aotearoa.Hōkai Rangi, our over-arching strategic direction, places the focus on health at the heart of our business. Building our frameworks from a Mātauranga Māori basis is our focus to drive and support equity for Māori, which in turn will contribute to achieving our outcomes of reducing reoffending.You can find out more about us here. Tono ināianei | Apply nowApplications Close 11pm Sunday,29 March 2026.Please apply and describe your motivation for joining the department, highlighting relevant skills and experience.
Please include a tailored CV or Cover Letter if you have one. Alignment to our Kaupapa is critical to our success - we ask that you provide examples that reflect and demonstrate our organisation values. Ara Poutama Aotearoa values diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce which reflects the public we serve.We strive to make our recruitment process fair and inclusive, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.If you want to find out more about a career with us visit our careers page or email our team at careers@corrections.govt.nz