Report Analyst and Writer, OPCAT

at  NZ Ombudsman

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, with the goal of fairness for all.

MO TE TURANGA - ABOUT THE ROLE

You will be the team’s subject matter expert in relation to analysis of law and evidence, as well as reporting style, format and consistency. You will also be the primary liaison for the team with other staff who contribute to our OPCAT reporting, including legal, practice and communications advisors. You will be part of a friendly and collaborative environment where our people enjoy interesting and challenging work and are passionate about what they do.
Reporting to the Manager Reporting, Analysis and Programme Support, you will analyse and translate inspection findings into reports, in consultation with inspectors and advisors. You will analyse and distil key points from large and diverse information sources, taking care to understand context and balance different perspectives, while applying a strong human rights lens. You will work closely with the wider OPCAT team to interpret evidence and facts to assess compliance with law, policy and procedure, and apply best practice methodology and criteria relevant to national and international law. Consistency, collaboration and preventive approach will be important on writing and production of reports. You will on occasion participate in visits and inspections to places of detention in order to understand the context and environment

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Relevant tertiary qualification, preferably in public or administrative law or related discipline;
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills including demonstrated exceptional report writing ability;
• The ability to express complex and controversial ideas and information to a range of different audiences, both in writing and verbally;
• Excellent analytical skills, and an ability to ensure key legal and evidential issues are addressed appropriately;
• Ability to build relationships and gain support and participation of key internal stakeholders;
• Demonstrated understanding of relevant national and international law, standards and best practice;
• Proven ability to recognise and understand key Maori, disability and other cultural and human rights concepts;
• Experience as a team player who contributes to a positive team dynamic and works as part of a cohesive and collaborative office; and
• Willing and able to undertake occasional travel around New Zealand as required