Service Manager

Help shape the future of Education

We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes

Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our ākonga in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

• Permanent, full-time
• Taupō, Bay of Plenty

The Service Manager role presents an exciting and rewarding opportunity to raise achievement, reduce disparity and help New Zealand's young learners to be the best they can be.

We are looking for an experienced individual with management capabilities who can champion change and provide co-ordination and leadership that influences and motivates others through personal advocacy, vision and aspiration in a collaborative environment.

You will lead and work with a committed, professional team delivering a range of learning support specialist education services to tamariki and rangatahi. You and your team will work with whānau, communities, early childhood providers/Kōhanga Reo, schools/kura, Kura Kaupapa Māori and other Māori-medium settings to strengthen inclusive practices, raise student achievement, improve educational outcomes and deliver on communities' aspirations. You will have a key role facilitating the timely provision of services in response to local needs.

This permanent, full-time role is based at our Taupō Office, offering a fantastic lifestyle and work-life balance opportunity. (See the following link for more information on Taupō as a destination: Love Taupō New Zealand | Taupo Official Website)

Applicants who live in the surrounding South Waikato, Rotorua or wider Bay of Plenty areas and are willing to commute may also be interested in this role.

Salary range: $120,193-$140,482 per annum + KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

For more details about the role, you can view Job Description here.

About you | Mōhou ake

The person we are looking for to fill this role will have the following capabilities and competencies:

• experience in leading complex teams and managing workload and resource issues
• effective and efficient communication skills with a range of internal and external stakeholders
• proven ability in developing strong connections and networks across the Ministry, local education providers, iwi, communities and whānau to achieve educational priorities for the region
• demonstrated ability to engage in a culturally responsive and respectful way with Māori, iwi, hapū, whānau and ākonga
• experience at influencing and leading innovation, people, programmes and change, and fostering a collaborative and continuous-improvement-focused culture
• experience in developing and delivering workplans that align to organisational strategies and work programmes
• skills in brokering support from across the Ministry and other agencies to deliver joined up work programmes tailored to local needs
• the ability to follow through and finish complex or sensitive tasks and issues
• the ability to interpret and use data to inform and influence decision-making and monitor and report on outcomes
• the ability to understand and apply the principles of Te Tirirti o Waitangi and tangata whenuatanga, including promoting tikanga and te reo Māori
• a tertiary qualification in a relevant field (postgraduate preferred) or an equivalent level of practical experience is required
• a full current driver licence as travel is a requirement of this role
• the ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Mahau | Education Services is a frontline group that collectively provides leadership and integrated services to the sector and others.

Learning Support is a critical part of Te Mahau | Education Services in the Ministry. We are charged with leading the education sector in ensuring that children and young people with additional learning needs are supported to achieve their full potential through education.

Our Learning Support specialists work closely with families, whānau, caregivers, schools and early childhood educators in English and Māori medium settings and other agencies to help maximise learning outcomes and promote social inclusion. (Please see the following link: Recruitment within Learning Support – Careers in Education)

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘Apply’ button (please do not email your application). In your cover letter, we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

For further information, please contact Pennie Muldoon at 07 349 7464 and/or email Pennie.Muldoon@education.govt.nz.

Applications close at midnight on Sunday, 2 August 2026.

We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.