27th June, 2025
Private Secretary
- Deliver high-quality, efficient, and responsive support to the Minister for Pacific Peoples
- Act as the primary liaison between the Minister’s Office and the Ministry
- Coordinate Ministerial servicing across the Ministry
About Us: The Ministry for Pacific Peoples (MPP) is the Crown’s principal advisor on policies and interventions aimed at improving outcomes for Pacific peoples in Aotearoa. We bring Pacific voices and perspectives into the heart of government decision-making.
We’re here to empower, to uplift, and to drive long-term change. Our mission is to enrich Aotearoa with thriving Pacific communities through policy, innovation, partnerships, leadership, and data-informed insights.
The Role: - Fixed Term or Secondment Opportunity
- Wellington based
As Private Secretary, you’ll be the vital link between the Minister for Pacific Peoples and the Ministry — ensuring seamless communication, aligned priorities, and a “no surprises” environment. Based in Wellington, this fixed-term role supports the Minister through trusted advice, relationship management, and coordinated ministerial servicing in a fast-paced and highly connected setting.
As A Private Secretary You Will:
- Keep information flowing smoothly between the Minister and Ministry.
- Commission and coordinate Ministerial briefings, speeches, and documents.
- Manage parliamentary questions, OIA requests, and official correspondence.
- Provide clear, timely, and trusted advice to support decision-making.
- Represent the Ministry in key meetings and support the Minister at events.
What We’re Looking For: - Previous experience as a Private Secretary or similar senior advisory role.
- A deep understanding of how government works — including Cabinet processes and OIA’s.
- 3+ years in the public service, ideally with Pacific policy or community engagement experience.
- Strong judgement under pressure and the ability to hold trusted relationships
- Experience practising Pacific cultural values and protocols in a professional setting
- Excellent communication, coordination, and relationship management skills
- A background in navigating community dynamics and government priorities will help you thrive.
Why Work With Us?
We offer more than a job — we offer purpose, values, and real impact. Our culture is grounded in Pacific values:
Ola fetufaaki (Reciprocity),
Tāpuakiga (Spirituality),
Soalaupule (Consensus),
Piri’anga (Collectivism),
Fakalilifu (Respect),
Magafaoa (Family), and
Aro’a (Love).
This fixed-term or secondment opportunity is a chance to be part of a passionate, values-led team making a real difference for Pacific communities. You’ll be supported, welcomed, and empowered to contribute meaningfully — in a workplace that values connection, collaboration, and cultural integrity.
Join The Team:
Please apply online via our careers site at www.mpp.govt.nz. Include your CV and a brief cover letter explaining why you're a great fit for the role.
If you’d like more information or to Kōrero/Talanoa further, email us at
recruitment@mpp.govt.nz. To see a copy of the job description please copy and paste the link below.
https://www.mpp.govt.nz/assets/People-Culture/New-JD-links/Private-Secretary-June-2025.pdf
Applications close: 11 July 2025 at 5:00pm Please note: We are reviewing applications as they come in and interviews may take place during the advertising period.
- This position requires a five-year verifiable background history to assess suitability for a security clearance. The successful candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a national security clearance at the Confidential level.
- Applicants need to have a right to work in New Zealand with a valid visa.
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