Lead Adviser, Climate Change

• Help shape Zealand’s development impact
• Lead climate change and environment policy, programming and delivery.
• Wellington based permanent positions

Lead climate and environment policy and advice to drive New Zealand’s regional and global development impact and shape major investments and partnerships.

About the role - Kōrero mō te tūranga

As Lead Adviser Climate Change and Environment, you will play a pivotal role in how New Zealand plans and delivers climate- and environment-related International Development Cooperation (IDC) investments. You will provide strategic policy advice and leadership across complex development and climate change and environment issues.  You’ll lead Pacific and Development Group climate change and environment insights that inform senior leaders, Ministers, and international partners.

The Climate Change and Environment Unit leads on climate change and environment policy and delivery within the PDG Group. 

As a Lead Adviser, you will:

• Lead the development of strategic policy advice on climate and environment-related international development issues, with a focus on policy and technical areas. 
• Provide thought leadership to shape and deliver New Zealand’s international development cooperation programme in the climate change and environment area.
• Lead the delivery of and engagement in significant Activities, including multilateral climate and/or environment Funds
• Lead or contribute to the design of development investments using the Five Case Model and intervention logic. 
• Lead collaboration efforts across the Ministry and with external partners.
• Coach and mentor staff, fostering high standards, collaboration, and a culture of learning. 
• Represent the Ministry in domestic and international engagements, influencing stakeholders and advocating for New Zealand’s interests.
• Maintain strong relationships across the Ministry, government agencies, partners, and international development organisations.
• Deputise for Unit Managers as required. 
• Expected to travel periodically.

This position requires exceptional analytical skills, political awareness, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments. You will bring expertise in development policy, programme design, and strategic planning, along with a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and inclusive development principles.

For more detail you can view a copy of the position description here.

The salary range for this role is $148,123 to midpoint $172,261 total remuneration, inclusive of our KiwiSaver employer contribution. We expect to appoint depending on your level of experience.  

Who are we looking for? - Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

• Significant relevant experience including working on climate change or environmental issues in the Pacific or globally.
• Demonstrated senior experience in international development policy and programme design. 
• Experience leading complex policy initiatives or investment planning. 
• Experience representing New Zealand in international or regional forums. 
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to produce high quality insights for senior audiences.
• Proven capability to influence, provide strategic advice, and navigate ambiguity.
• Experience leading or mentoring others and contributing to a high performing culture.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Strong understanding of government processes and the public sector environment.
• Awareness of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori perspectives (or willingness to develop).

Why MFAT? - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Aorere

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options consistent with guidance from the Public Service Commission.  Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here.

MFAT is Rainbow Tick accredited. We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging.  We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds. 

About us - Mō mātou

Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous.  By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values.  We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world. 

To Apply/Interested? - Me pēhea te tuku tono

Apply today with your CV and cover letter.

For a confidential discussion please email alison.carlin@mfat.govt.nz

To be considered for this position at Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade you must be a NZ citizen or Permanent Resident. 

You must be able to obtain and maintain a TOP SECRET security clearance. Ordinarily, to obtain this level of clearance candidates must have sufficient checkable background in countries where meaningful and reliable checks can be undertaken. Where requisite checks are unable to be made, the candidate application may not be able to be progressed.

Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a TOP SECRET clearance. Please note that this tool is not part of the formal security clearance process: http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool

Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Applications close at midnight on  Tuesday, 24 March 2026.