Director Assessment Strategy & Transformation

About this role

Director – Assessment Strategy and Transformation

Shape the next generation of assessment practice in Aotearoa New Zealand

• Leadership Role
• Be at the centre of system-wide transformation
• Wellington based

Whakatairangatia ngā kete o te mātauranga ki te ao mārama! E te tai whakarunga, e te tai whakararo – nau piki mai, nau kake mai ki te Mana Tohu Mātauranga o Aotearoa.

May the baskets of knowledge (education) be brought into the world of light. We welcome one and all to join us at the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

Join NZQA in a pivotal leadership role where you will help shape a future-focused, equitable, and innovative assessment system for New Zealand's secondary learners.

New Zealand's secondary school qualification system is on the cusp of its most significant transformation in over two decades. With the Government proposing to replace NCEA with a new national qualifications pathway, NZQA is leading the way in designing an assessment system that is future-focused, equitable, and aligned with the refreshed national curriculum.

We're seeking a strategic and visionary leader, with deep expertise in education and assessment to guide this transformation.

This is a critical role that will ensure that assessment practices support all learners to succeed in further education, training, or employment.

Mō tēnei tūranga | About the role

NZQA is looking for a transformational leader to guide the evolution of assessment design, delivery, and credentialing; ensuring it reflects Te Tiriti o Waitangi, embraces Te Ao Māori, and meets the diverse needs of ākonga across Aotearoa.

This is your opportunity to lead system-level change that is grounded in evidence, informed by international best practice, and aligned with national education priorities.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of NZQA's assessment strategy.
• Drive innovation in assessment design, informed by evidence and international best practice, aligned with curriculum and system priorities.
• Build strong partnerships across the education sector, government, and international bodies.
• Provide strategic advice to senior leaders and lead system-wide transformation.

Ko tāu nā i tēnei tūranga | What you'll bring to the role:

• Deep expertise in education, assessment, or public policy, with 10+ years as senior leader
• Proven experience leading transformation programmes in the public sector.
• A strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and culturally responsive practice.
• The ability to navigate complexity, influence at all levels, and deliver results.

This is a rare opportunity to lead at a time when the future of secondary school qualifications is being reimagined. Your leadership will help ensure that every learner in Aotearoa has access to an assessment and qualification system that is clear, consistent, and sets them up for success—whether in further study, work, or life.

This is more than a leadership role; it's a chance to shape how learning is recognised and achievement is credentialed across Aotearoa.

Ngā Painga o NZQA | Why Choose NZQA

At NZQA, we're passionate about ensuring fair, inclusive, and high-quality assessment and qualifications. Our work enables learners to have their achievement recognised and credentialed, supporting their progression into further education, training, or employment. You'll be part of a collaborative team that values integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Pēhea te tono mai | How to apply

For more information about this role and NZQA please refer to the job description, NZQA's Customer Charter and Organisational Values.

If you are applying/viewing through Seek, please click ‘apply now' to access these links.

If you would like to discuss further, please contact Jann Marshall on Jann.Marshall@nzqa.govt.nz

Applications close at 5.00 pm on 18 November 2025

You must have the right to live and work in Aotearoa New Zealand to apply for this role.

NZQA is committed to developing a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities and welcome applications from everyone who can meet the requirements of the role.