Senior Human Resources Advisor

at  Department of Conservation

• Shape and implement HR strategies aligned with organisational goals.
• Drive people and culture excellence.
• 1 x permanent role and 1 x fixed term/secondment opportunity to cover parental leave; Wellington location.

NGA PUKENGA ME NGA WHEAKO | SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

If you are a doer with a passion for HR excellence, we would love to hear from you.

To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills and experience.

• A tertiary qualification in human resources or related field, or equivalent knowledge gained through experience.
• Proven experience in a Senior HR Advisory or similar role.
• A strong understanding of employment law and HR best practices.
• Current knowledge of NZ employment legislation and demonstrated experience managing ER processes.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• The ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism and discretion.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to challenges.
• A passion for Te Papa Atawhai’s Kaupapa is essential as well as understanding of Maori Tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Desirable:

• Experience working in central or local government.

HE ANGITUTANGA | ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for two experienced HR professionals to join our team as Senior Advisors. In this role, you will provide expert support and guidance to managers, team leaders, and supervisors across DOC. You will assist the People and Culture Business Partner for your assigned portfolio and collaborate with other P&C functions, playing a vital role in driving engagement, fostering a positive workplace culture, and ensuring our HR practices are aligned with the organisation’s values and objectives.
We have two positions - one permanent role and one fixed term/secondment until April 2026 to cover parental leave. Both positions offer an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact within our HR team.

Your core responsibilities will include:

• providing expert guidance on HR policies, procedures and employment legislation
• providing coaching and feedback to managers, team leaders and supervisors to support decision-making
• supporting on complex employee relation cases, including investigations, disciplinary actions and grievance processes
• ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations
• collaborating on organisational change projects and support the development of HR strategies.

To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills and experience.

• A tertiary qualification in human resources or related field, or equivalent knowledge gained through experience.
• Proven experience in a Senior HR Advisory or similar role.
• A strong understanding of employment law and HR best practices.
• Current knowledge of NZ employment legislation and demonstrated experience managing ER processes.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• The ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism and discretion.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to challenges.
• A passion for Te Papa Atawhai’s Kaupapa is essential as well as understanding of Maori Tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi