Assistant Advisor People Enablement

Mo te Tari o te Kaitiaki Mana Tangata - About the Ombudsman

The Chief Ombudsman works with his staff to help New Zealanders in their dealings with government agencies. The focus is on handling complaints against government agencies, undertaking investigations and inspections, and encouraging good administration. The Chief Ombudsman is independent and impartial, working to ensure fairness for all.

He wa tino pai ki te hono mai ki to matou tari - It's a great time to join our office

Public confidence in government institutions is under pressure, and the Office of the Ombudsman plays a constitutionally independent role, critical to the success of good administration. Demand for our services is growing, and New Zealanders expect us to be more accessible, responsive and impactful.

Following a significant organisational transformation, we are evolving how we work to maximise our impact. This is a new way of working where kaimahi are empowered, collaboration is real, leadership is visible and values-driven, and ensuring those doing the work help shape the direction of the organisation.

Mo to matou tira - About the team

The People Enablement team provides expert advice and services across recruitment, employment relations, organisational development, and health and safety. We are part of the broader People and Capability group, alongside the Learning and Capability function, and work closely together to deliver a connected, high-quality people experience for our kaimahi.

Mo te turanga - About the role

This is a fantastic opportunity to start or grow your career in people and capability. You'll gain hands-on experience from day one, supported by a team that is genuinely invested in your development.

As the Assistant Advisor People Enablement, you will be the first point of contact for people-related queries and play a key role in ensuring our HR processes, records and systems run smoothly. You will work across the full employee lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding through to remuneration reviews and exits, building a strong foundation in HR practice.

You will work alongside experienced practitioners, contribute to projects, and support continuous improvement initiatives. You will also work in close partnership with our Learning and Capability team, providing backup support across onboarding and induction, giving you exposure across the wider People and Capability function.

This role is well suited to someone who takes pride in getting things right, enjoys variety, and is proactive in learning and improving how things are done.

He korero mou - About you

To be successful in this role you will have:

• An understanding of the Ombudsman's role and jurisdiction in contemporary society.
• A tertiary qualification in human resource management, business or a related discipline, and/or equivalent work experience
• Some experience working in an HR or people advisory role, providing advice and support to managers and kaimahi, preferably within the NZ public sector
• Knowledge and understanding of HR practices, processes and employment legislation in the New Zealand context
• Experience supporting recruitment and selection processes
• Experience working with databases or information management systems, with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver to deadlines
• The ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality

Te painga o te mahi tahi me matou - Our benefits, what we offer

Join a high-performing team in a values-driven organisation where your contribution is recognised and your development supported.

• Genuine career progression opportunities with training and mentoring
• Flexible working options
• Competitive remuneration
• Three extra annual leave days after 12 months
• Onsite gym and personal training (free for employees)
• Three paid office closure days between Christmas and New Year
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Me pehea te tono - How to apply

To apply, click `Apply Now' and complete the online application form, including your CV and cover letter. For further information, email [email protected]

All applicants will have a legal entitlement to work in New Zealand. Appointees will be subject to a criminal convictions check

As the Ombudsman's role is to provide "fairness for all" New Zealanders, it is important that our staff represent New Zealanders from all walks of life. We value your individuality and how you can contribute to our team. We encourage applicants from all walks of life.

Depending on skills and experience the salary is expected to be between $61,701 and $80,982, with the midpoint being $77,126.

This role is based in Wellington (please note this role is not suitable for fully remote working).

Applications close 5pm, 8 July 2026