Investigator (Proactive Interventions)

Mō 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, with the goal of fairness for all.

Mō tō mātou tira - About the team:

Our Proactive Interventions team is responsible for a dual mandate. Firstly, it identifies and leads interventions and investigations aimed at improving administrative decision making across the public sector.

Secondly, it investigates agencies' compliance and practice with the Official Information Act (OIA) and Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act (LGOIMA). These practice reviews look at five key areas including leadership, organizational structure and capability, policies, practice, and performance monitoring.

This work assists agencies to identify and correct administrative deficiencies, including where significant systemic issues are identified.

Mō te tūranga - About the role:

As an Investigator you will contribute to the team's delivery of proactive interventions and investigations into public sector administration issues and public sector official information practices.

You will be part of a newly created team that conducts practice investigations and designs and develops innovative and timely interventions or investigations that address system-wide administrative issues. The focus is on identifying areas for improvement and working collaboratively with agencies to resolve issues. You will develop and utilise a range of methodologies such as case studies, resolutions, focused interventions and investigations, developing examples of good practice, solutions and guides.

Working under the guidance of senior staff, you will play a key role in delivering work that contributes to the Office's wider sector improvement goals.

He kōrero mōu - About you:

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A relevant tertiary qualification, preferably in public or administrative law or a related discipline.
• A sound understanding of the role and functions of the Ombudsman.
• Knowledge of the Ombudsmen's jurisdiction, relevant legislation, and investigation practices.
• A sound understanding of New Zealand public sector practice, operational contexts, and challenges.
• An ability to recognise and understand key cultural and human rights concepts, including the te Tiriti o Waitangi and disability perspectives.
• Experience in working with official information legislation or in a similar regulatory, investigative, compliance environment or in undertaking research and analysis, including conducting interviews to obtain key information.
• Experience in undertaking research, analysis, and conducting interviews.
• Experience in contributing to the preparation of written reports.
• Proven ability to work autonomously on complex matters while contributing effectively to a team-oriented environment.

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

Becoming part of an exceptional team in a dynamic organisation, where the work is challenging and rewarding. Your development and growth will be nurtured, and your work recognised and valued.

• Genuine career progression opportunities and professional development through training and mentoring by senior members of your team
• Flexible working options
• Competitive remuneration
• Three extra Annual Leave days after 12 months of employment
• Onsite gym and personal trainer, free to all employees
• Three paid office holidays between Christmas and New Year
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Me pēhea te tono - How to apply:

To apply, click on the ‘Apply Now' button where you will need to register through our online career centre, complete our application form and upload your CV and cover letter. For further information about this vacancy please email [email protected].

All applicants will have a legal entitlement to work in New Zealand. Appointees will be subject to a criminal convictions check and may be required to achieve and maintain a NZ Government (NZSIS) security clearance.

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 $98,182 to $128,864 with $122,728 being the mid-point.

This role is based in Wellington or Auckland. Occasional travel will be required. Please note we are unable to consider 100% remote working for this role.

Applications Close: 5 pm on 15 October 2026