Programme Risk and Assurance Lead

About the Role:

A prominent Ministry is seeking a skilled and experienced Programme Risk and Assurance Lead to join a critical technology and business change programme. This 12-month contract role offers the opportunity to contribute to the transformation of systems that support a national audience and contribute majorly to NZ Inc. The successful candidate will report directly to a newly appointed Programme Director, playing a key role in ensuring that the programme’s risk management processes are robust and effective, aligning with the Ministry's strategic objectives and ensuring the programme’s successful delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the identification, assessment, and management of risks within the largest Programme in the Ministry.
• Work closely with programme and project managers to ensure consistent risk management practices are embedded across the programme.
• Provide assurance to the Programme Director, Programme Managers, senior stakeholders, and project teams on the status of risk management activities.
• Develop and maintain risk management frameworks, ensuring they are comprehensive and aligned with the Ministry's strategic objectives.
• Monitor and report on risk mitigation strategies, escalating issues where necessary and ensuring timely interventions.
• Support the Programme Director in governance processes, ensuring risks are actively tracked and reported at all levels.
• Ensure compliance with organisational policies, standards, and relevant legislation throughout the project lifecycle.

• Proven experience in risk management, assurance, or similar roles within large, complex business and technology change programmes.
• Strong understanding of project management frameworks and methodologies, with a focus on risk and assurance.
• Experience working with technology transformation programmes or system upgrades is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and risks in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and maintain a strategic focus on achieving project goals.

• Competitive hourly rate.
• A 12-month contract with the opportunity to make a significant impact within a high-profile programme.
• An opportunity to contribute to a vital programme supporting kiwis across Aotearoa New Zealand.