Foreign Policy Professional
Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade
📍Wellington (NZ) 🕔 Full Time
💰 $93,542 to $111,679 NZD/year ⏳ 12/04/2026
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Manatū Aorere – welcomes applications from experienced policy professionals interested in building a safer, more prosperous and more sustainable future for New Zealanders through the Ministry’s work. These roles are rotational, giving you the opportunity to develop deep expertise across multiple areas of foreign policy, trade, and international development over time.
Depending on your background and the needs of the Ministry, you may be involved in:
Contributing to New Zealand’s international development and humanitarian assistance efforts in the Pacific region and beyond as part of New Zealand’s International Development Cooperation programme.
Expanding opportunities and improving trading conditions for New Zealand in overseas markets.
Supporting New Zealand’s engagement with partners including other government agencies, iwi, regional organisations, NGOs, business, and academia.
Representing New Zealand in international forums and negotiations;
Delivering diplomatic visits, events, and other engagements.
Responding to international crises and the international impacts of domestic crises.
Developing the leadership skills needed to influence, negotiate, and work effectively across cultures.
Opportunities for overseas postings may also be available as you progress your career.
Who are we looking for? - Mā wai te mahi nei?
A minimum of four years’ professional experience and subject matter expertise in a relevant technical field such as law, trade policy, economics, international development, or international governance and institutions.
International Development policy or programme management experience, including in areas such as health, education, infrastructure, renewable energy, and humanitarian assistance, or a willingness to work in an international development focused role.
A Bachelor’s or Postgraduate Degree in a discipline relevant to the technical area/s identified, with demonstrated high achievement.
Aptitude for the Ministry’s work — analytical, adaptable, resilient, with strong written and verbal communication skills.
An ability to build and foster positive relationships with a range of domestic and international stakeholders.
A sound understanding of Mātauranga Māori and the Treaty of Waitangi / te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Proficiency in one or more languages other than English would be beneficial.
A New Zealand citizen and able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret national security clearance.
Why MFAT? - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Aorere
We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options consistent with guidance from the Public Service Commission. Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here. MFAT is Rainbow Tick accredited. We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging. We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds.
About us - Mō mātou
Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous. By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values. We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world.
To Apply/Interested? - Me pēhea te tuku tono
The online application process will require you to complete a questionnaire in addition to providing your CV, Cover Letter and Academic Transcript (or proof of qualification, such as a photocopy of degree). For any queries on the recruitment process or issues applying, please email fprecruitment@mfat.govt.nz
