Oranga Tamariki – Ministry for Children is committed to ensuring all children in Aotearoa New Zealand are safe, loved, and nurtured by whānau, hapū, and iwi, supported by thriving communities. With over 4,000 kaimahi nationwide, we are focused on supporting tamariki and rangatahi whose wellbeing is at risk and enabling transformative outcomes for them and their whānau.
Mō te tūnga | About the Role
As Deputy Chief Executive (DCE) – People, Culture & Enabling Services, you will report directly to the Chief Executive in leading our organisational support and corporate functions, including people and capability, technology, finance, enterprise project management, health, safety, and wellbeing.
This is a transformational leadership opportunity. The DCE will spearhead our cultural shift, empowering kaimahi, strengthening leadership, and reshaping organisational systems to ensure Oranga Tamariki delivers sustainable, high-impact services to tamariki, whānau, and communities. With oversight of approximately 317 staff, you will guide the People, Culture & Enabling Services group in driving excellence across strategy, resource management, and capability development.
Collaboration is critical to this role, as is a deep commitment to our values, including Te Tiriti o Waitangi, mana tamaiti, whakapapa, and whanaungatanga principles. The successful candidate will ensure that Oranga Tamariki is an inclusive and high-performing organisation, driven by values and designed to deliver effective support to those who need it most.
Mōu | About You
You are an experienced executive leader who brings a strong proven track record in shaping organisational culture, leading significant change initiatives, and driving strategic outcomes. Your background includes:
- Leading large, multi-functional teams within complex, public-sector organisations.
- Navigating major change management initiatives, particularly those involving cultural transformation.
- Demonstrating a deep understanding of te ao Māori and cultural competency frameworks, and applying these in meaningful ways to organisational strategy and operations.
- Delivering innovative people strategies that build capability, grow leadership, and enable operational excellence.
- Partnering effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including iwi, hapū, and communities.
You are passionate about enabling high-performing teams and fostering collaborative, inclusive cultures. Strong communication skills, political acumen, and an ability to navigate ambiguity are essential.
This is an opportunity to make a significant impact within a high-profile organisation committed to supporting tamariki and whānau across Aotearoa. As part of our executive leadership team, you will contribute to our transformational journey and help shape the future of Oranga Tamariki.