Job Description

Principal Advisor - Data

At the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) we invest over $3 billion annually to support lifelong learning and vocational success across the country. As part of this transformation, we are building a smarter, more connected data ecosystem and we are looking for a Principal Advisor to help us get there.

As Principal Advisor Data, you will work drive excellence in data governance, quality, and reporting. You will be a mentor and guide to technical teams, champion best practices, and ensure our data is trusted, scalable, and impactful. This is your opportunity to influence how data shapes decisions, policy, and outcomes for learners, communities, and employers across Aotearoa.

This is a permanent role which is strictly based in our offices in Wellington.

He angitūtanga: About the Role
Reporting to the Manager Data & Digital Development, the Principal Advisor Data provides leadership across TEC's data practice, supporting Data Warehouse Developers, Data Analysts, and BI Developers to deliver high-quality outcomes. This role focuses on mentoring, coaching, and driving continuous improvement of data processes and standards, while acting as a bridge between business stakeholders, IT, and data engineering.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead data governance, data quality, and standards across multiple platforms and workstreams. Facilitating governance forums and working groups and managing data sharing agreements
• Develop and maintain data governance policies and guidelines for data collection, storage, processing and access.
• Providing thought leadership and mentoring across the data teams.
• Work with Team Leaders across data teams to help build capability 

He kōrero mōu: What we are looking for
We're looking for a proactive data leader with strong technical expertise and a passion for mentoring and continuous improvement. You will be a trusted advisor who can translate complex data concepts into clear insights and foster collaboration across teams.

You will bring the following:

• Proven experience in data governance, BI reporting, and data quality frameworks.
• Strong understanding of modern data platforms and tools (e.g., SQL, Power BI, cloud services).
• Experience in coaching and mentoring within technical teams.
• Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to lead communities of practice and drive innovation.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What's in it for you

• You'll be supported by a motivated and experienced leader who values professional growth and will actively support your development in a senior capacity
• A focus on career development and internal opportunities
• A range of benefits including flexible working options, a wellness programme and the ability to purchase extra leave.
• Three additional (TEC Days) leave days
• Reduced premiums through our Health Insurance Group Scheme
• At TEC we are committed to supporting a range of flexible working arrangements to help staff manage their work and personal commitments; we expect team members to be in the office at least three days per week to help collaboration.

The salary range for this position starts from $125,813 up to $148,015 + 3% KiwiSaver, depending on demonstrable skills and experience. Please note, if you believe you are good match for the role, but your salary expectations are outside of this range, we would still welcome an application from you.

Me pēhea te tuku tono: How to Apply
To view the job description and/or apply for the role, please click Apply For This Job or visit the TEC Careers Portal.

If this sounds like you, please apply now for this great opportunity with your tailored Cover Letter and CV - we welcome your application.

The closing date for this role is 5:00pm, Wednesday 01 October 2025. For more information or if you have any questions, please contact hr@tec.govt.nz

Applicants must have the ability to obtain and maintain the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Prior to the Tertiary Education Commission confirming any offer of employment, pre-employment checks will be undertaken including criminal conviction history and reference checking as a minimum.

The TEC is an equal opportunity employer and committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Your unique talents and experience will help us deliver exceptional services to New Zealand. We look forward to your application.