
About us | Mō mātou:
The Ministry of Social Development is a people-centred organisation. We’re in communities across the motu, working with partners to help New Zealanders be safe, strong and independent.
We provide social policy and advice to government and assistance, including income, employment and housing support to people of all ages, families, whānau and communities.
As a Te Tiriti o Waitangi partner we are committed to supporting and enabling Māori, whānau, hapū, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations.
Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. We care about the wellbeing and success of our people and provide a supportive and inclusive working environment where people can thrive and be who they are.
The Director will provide high level strategic and operational advice and support to the RPSC on strategy implementation and across agency and stakeholder engagement. This role supports and strengthens relationships with key stakeholders from across the region and leverages these relationships to implement strategies and initiatives for benefit of the region. In addition, the role will have accountability for researching and writing reports for the RPSC as required.
To be considered you will need the following experience and attributes:
• Extensive experience in providing advice and support to Senior Leaders within the Public Sector
• Proven experience of managing complex relationships, both internally and externally
• Experience in the initiation, development and implementation of strategies/initiatives that align with organisational needs and long-term outcomes
• Proven project management experience, particularly in the management of multi-faceted, complex and multi-stakeholder projects
• Demonstrated ability to stand apart from the immediacy of situations and take a broad or long-term view, foreseeing opportunities and developing workable solutions to problems
• An understanding of the strategic issues facing the Government, the Ministry and the Region
• Proven ability to work collaboratively and responsively in both government and non government settings
• Experience in a central government agency and understanding of the political system (conventions, structures, functions and objectives) and the wider cultural, economic and social environment in which it operates
• Experience of prioritising in an often busy and complex environment and applying sound judgement when dealing with competing deadlines
• A high level of computer literacy to include Microsoft package
• A degree level qualification in public administration, social policy or similar qualification is desirable
• Knowledge of the region, stakeholder relationships including iwi, local government, non-government organisations
You can copy and paste the link into your web browser here: https://www.msd.govt.nz/hr/documents/position-descriptions/dce-service-delivery/regional-service-delivery/director-regional-public-service.docx
How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono:
To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.
Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key responsibilities listed in the position description.
All applications must be made online. If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact the Executive Assistant to Regional Commission Mikayla on mikayla.allen021@msd.govt.nz
Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work. This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.
Closing date: Sunday 7th June, 2026
Joining us | Ko te hono mai:
Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents. We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive, and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity. We are a Treaty partner committed to strengthening relationships with Māori, Hapū, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations.
If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.

Auckland Council serves over 1.5 million Aucklanders providing services, policies and decision-making.
We’re here to serve Auckland and build a more prosperous region, one that gives a voice to our citizens, and makes it a great place to live, visit and invest.
Our talented people support Auckland’s elected representatives by providing specialist advice, implementing decisions and delivering services like rubbish and recycling, resource and building consents, bylaws, events and parks.
Our vision is to create a world-class city where talent wants to live. If you are interested in working for Auckland, visit our career website (careers.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz) or check our 'Jobs' and 'Life' tabs.
Auckland Transport, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Watercare are independent council-controlled organisations that look after specific council assets or activities on our behalf.