Manager Enterprise Data - Data Strategy and Operational Products

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Date: 20 Aug 2026

Location: Wellington, NZ

Company: Ministry of Social Development

  • Wellington based 
  • 24 month fixed term / Secondment opportunity  

 

This is an opportunity to lead enterprise-wide data capability and play a key role in shaping how MSD uses data to support its people, services, and future direction. Apply now to be part of this important work. 

About our team | Mō te tīma

 

MSD – services for the future is a multi-year programme to transform how we operate so we can deliver for New Zealanders and focus our resources and investment on the people who need it. The programme will make significant changes to our underlying systems, processes, and introduce redesigned services that put people first.   

 

The Information, Data, and Analytics team is leading an ambitious work programme to uplift our data and information capabilities to support the Transformation initiatives, while also establishing Enterprise level standards for BAU. MSD operates within a highly complex data environment, and our focus is on creating trusted foundations that allow data to be managed deliberately and consistently over time. This includes developing the architectural standards, strengthening stewardship and governance, embedding a standardised data quality framework, and establishing master data management practices. 

About the role | Mō te tūnga

 

As the Manager Enterprise Data, you will lead a team responsible for setting the direction for how data is managed, governed, and used across MSD. Working closely with teams across Strategy and Insights, Transformation, and Technology, your team will lead and contribute to the strategy and design that strengthens MSD’s broader data capabilities. 

 

You will lead a team of delivery leads, technology leads, data architects, and business analysts to ensure data solutions are well designed, meet enterprise standards, and can be successfully delivered. You will also play a key role in prioritising data initiatives across the Information, Data and Analytics portfolio, ensuring they align with MSD's transformation goals and wider organisational priorities. 

 

This is a strategic leadership role with a strong focus on collaboration, planning, and delivering long-term value. By providing clear direction and strengthening MSD's data and information capabilities, you will help improve the way data is shared and used across the organisation, support better decision-making, and reduce duplication of effort. 

 

To be successful in this role, you will bring strong leadership experience and a proven ability to deliver enterprise-wide data outcomes in large and complex organisations. You will have a relevant tertiary qualification or significant experience in a related field, along with the ability to work across strategy, delivery, and organisational priorities. 

What you bring | Ōu pūmanawatanga

 

  • Significant experience in enterprise data management, including data architecture, data platforms, data engineering, data governance, and data quality.
  • Proven experience leading high-performing teams and delivering complex programmes of work, ideally within large organisations and the public sector.
  • Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate, develop, and support teams while building capability and fostering a positive and inclusive team culture.
  • Experience leading change and transformation initiatives, with the ability to work effectively in fast-paced environments, manage competing priorities, and deliver results within agreed timeframes and budgets.
  • Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to provide clear, balanced advice on complex issues and support sound decision-making.
  •  Experience analysing business, market, and public sector data to identify insights, opportunities, and risks.
  • The ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively to a wide range of audiences, including both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Strong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills, with a collaborative approach and a focus on delivering value for customers and the organisation.
  • An understanding of policy development and implementation processes, including knowledge of the wider public sector environment and factors that influence successful delivery.
  • Sound judgement, political awareness, business acumen, and the ability to navigate ambiguity while maintaining a focus on outcomes.
  • A commitment to diversity, inclusion, and creating an environment where people feel valued, respected, and able to contribute.


This role will suit a strategic and pragmatic leader who is passionate about helping organisations make better use of data and information to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Position Description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga

Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $142,874.00 - $177,798.00

 

Applications close | Ka kati ngā tono hei te: Wednesday 2nd September, 2026. 

 

About us | Mō mātou

 

The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) is a people-centred organisation. We’re in communities across the motu, working with partners to help New Zealanders be safe, strong and independent.

 

We provide social policy advice to government, and assistance including income, employment and housing support to people of all ages, families, whānau and communities.

 

As a Te Tiriti o Waitangi partner, we are committed to supporting and enabling Māori, whānau, hapū, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations.

 

Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. We care about the wellbeing and success of our people and provide a supportive and inclusive working environment where people can thrive and be who they are.

 

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono

 

Before you submit your application, please take a moment to review our guidance to understand how AI can best support your application. Candidate Guidance - Responsible AI use in recruitment

 

To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.

 

Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process. Please highlight how your skills and experience relate to the key responsibilities listed in the position description and job advertisement.

 

All applications must be made online. If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact us at jobs@msd.govt.nz

 

Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work. This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.

 

Joining us | Ko te hono mai

 

Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents.

 

We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity. You can find out more about our values here.

 

If you have any support or accessibility requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.