Tautai Pasifika - Project Co-lead (Pacific)

About this role

Project Co‑Lead (Pacific) – Pacific Qualifications Recognition Project

Fixed term (2026–Feb 2029)

The Pacific region continues to face low levels of qualifications recognition, creating barriers to employment and labour mobility for skilled and semi‑skilled workers. Improving these systems is critical to unlocking economic opportunities and strengthening development across Pacific Island countries.

The Pacific Qualifications Recognition Project is a five‑year capability and capacity‑building initiative (2024–2028) funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Guided and project managed by NZQA and delivered in partnership with the Pacific Community's (SPC) Educational Quality and Assessment Programme (EQAP), the project works alongside Pacific country representatives to strengthen the Pacific Qualifications Framework and national qualification systems. The project aims to achieve:

1. Enhanced consistency of Pacific qualification recognition and assurance processes
2. Wider ownership, trust in, and support for regional qualifications systems
3. Increased employment opportunities for Pacific peoples as a result of recognised qualifications

From 2026, the project enters its Strengthening Phase, informed by lessons learned during the first two years. A new joint leadership model has been established to:

• Strengthen leadership and Pacific cultural intelligence across the project and team
• Combine technical and cultural leadership to support innovation and adaptability
• Provide continuity and shared strategic relationship management across a small project team

NZQA is seeking a Project Co‑Lead (Pacific) to work closely alongside the Project Co‑Lead (Technical) and SPC EQAP to successfully deliver the second phase of the project. This is a unique opportunity to shape regional qualification systems, champion Pacific perspectives, and contribute to long-term outcomes for Pacific learners, workers, and communities.

The role requires strong understanding of New Zealand's public sector and education context, supported by solid project and financial management capability and sound, confidential decision‑making. It demands a proven ability to build strategic relationships across national and international systems, with deep respect for Pacific cultures and values. Excellent interpersonal, communication and influencing skills are essential, along with the ability to represent NZQA confidently in a wide range of settings. The position also calls for adaptability, innovation, and the ability to coach and develop others, ideally with experience in Pacific contexts. Knowledge of qualifications systems and quality assurance is advantageous, and a tertiary qualification at NZQF Level 7 or equivalent experience is required.

If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply now.

Apply Now!

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 further information about the role, please contact Utufaasisili Rosemary Mose on 0272137155.

Applications close at 5.00 pm on 8 March 2026.