Principal Analyst | Wellington City

Job Description

Principal Analyst - Fixed Term 10 months, Full time

Te Haeata/The Opportunity

We are looking for people as passionate about data and analytic insights as we are. In Sector Insights, we are united in a common goal of using data to drive insights to inform decision making by justice sector leaders. We support justice agencies to work together to deliver ambitious results for a fair and safe Aotearoa.

Your role as a Principal Analyst is as a catalyst for change and improvement based on empirical data. Not just hunches or maybes, but well researched, robust data which tells a clear and engaging story. Equally important is your ability to work collaboratively, listen deeply, and adapt your communication to different audiences so insights land with impact.

As a Principal Analyst in the Reporting and Advice team, you are responsible for:

• Providing strategic leadership, expert advice and support of work programmes undertaken by the Ministry of Justice and the wider Justice Sector.  You'll draw on strong relationship skills to bring people along with you, creating shared understanding across both technical and non‑technical colleagues.
• Collaboration across the Ātea a Rangi – Strategy group to deliver evidence-based insight and advice that supports strategy, investment and prioritisation in the Justice Sector.
• Supporting mandatory outputs across the Ministry by delivering timely, accurate datasets, and repeatable reporting. Lead regular reporting and ad-hoc analysis to inform operational and strategic decision-making aligned with Ministry priorities and government targets.

Now is an exciting time for you to become part of the Ministry of Justice in Sector Insights as the insights and advice we provide are highly sought after. Our work is characterised by innovation, quality, and impact, and we inform the direction of Justice agencies.

You'll also bring excellent situational awareness — the ability to ‘read the room', adjust your communication style, and engage constructively with a wide range of people. 

Ō pūkenga/Skills and Experience

You will be adaptable and comfortable pivoting as priorities shift – no two days are the same, and you'll thrive in an environment where flexibility and responsiveness are key. Importantly your work will demonstrate attention to detail and show a willingness to take responsibility for group outcomes.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Proven experience providing technical leadership in analytical or data-focused teams
• Ability to move between technical detail and high-level insight, from data extraction to storytelling
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively, influence without authority, and bring people on the journey during change, including via coaching and mentoring
• Passion and curiosity for analysis and generation of insights
• A tertiary degree in relevant field (preferred) 

Mō mātou/About us

At Te Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to strengthening people's trust in the law of Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Sector Insights is comprised of five teams – Analytics and Modelling, Business Intelligence, Data Response, Reporting and Advice, and Research and Evaluation.

We work collaboratively, turning data into insight to support the delivery of better services and outcomes to people engaging with the Justice system.  We achieve this by helping our partners answer three critical questions: What's happening? Why is it happening? and What would happen if?   

This supports Justice Sector leaders to focus improvement efforts on the areas that will make the biggest difference to New Zealanders.

Our work is challenging and complex. Our goals are ambitious. We make a real difference to the New Zealand Justice system. Our teams are curious, capable and influential. We have inspirational leaders who support, challenge and actively promote career development. Work-life balance is a priority for us, and everyone is encouraged to support their wellbeing. We offer a dynamic and social environment, a place you can be yourself.

Joining Te Tāhū o te Ture means you will become part of an organisation that welcomes and supports people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities and religions. 

Ngā painga o tēnei wāhi mahi/What's great about working here

• A place you can be yourself
• A team with a strong supportive culture
• Opportunities to learn and develop
• Competitive salary package

We offer you a range of benefits to support your wellbeing and help make the Ministry a great place to be. These include:

• 22 days holiday leave (FT)
• an online professional development portal
• access to a variety of inclusive and proactive networks

See our full range of benefits here.

With a wide range of jobs, you also get the chance to gain a variety of skills and experience while developing your career.

Utu ā-tau/Salary

The appointing salary for this role will be between $130,129 and $168,062 based on skills and experience.

Tono mai/HApply

To apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.

Applications close on 9 March 2026; however, we will be reviewing CVs as they come in and may invite successful candidates to interview before the close date.

If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz