About this role
Play a key role in planning and delivering a diverse programme of high-profile visits and events. Work with senior stakeholders across government, the diplomatic corps and external partners. Permanent, Wellington based role Contribute to the delivery of major visits and events About the role - Kōrero mō te tūranga The Visits and Event Logistics Unit (VELU) within Protocol Division is looking for an experienced Coordinator to support the delivery of a diverse portfolio of visits and events for which the Ministry has responsibility. This is a busy and varied role requiring someone who can effectively manage multiple priorities, build strong stakeholder relationships, and independently drive work forward in a fast-paced environment. You will bring proven Coordinator experience, excellent organisational skills, sound judgement, and exceptional attention to detail. Key responsibilities include: Maintaining and proactively managing key unit planning and tracking documentation, including the Inward Guest of Government Visits Schedule and associated records. Independently tracking and monitoring the progress of visits and events, identifying issues early and ensuring deadlines and milestones are met. Coordinating and delivering Credentials Ceremonies for Heads of Mission at Government House. Providing end-to-end coordination of New Zealand-based events, ensuring delivery on time, within budget and within scope. Supporting the planning and delivery of inward VIP visits and official programmes. Applying established policies, procedures and operational guidance to support the Ministry's management and triaging of official visits. Building and maintaining effective relationships with government agencies, diplomatic missions, external suppliers and internal stakeholders. Identifying opportunities to improve processes, systems and ways of working. Providing surge support to VELU Project Managers during periods of increased demand. For more detail you can view a copy of the position description here The salary range for this role is $79,604 and $93,652 total remuneration, inclusive of our KiwiSaver employer contribution. Who are we looking for? - Mā wai te mahi nei? We'd like to hear from you if you are an experienced coordinator who brings: At least 18 months' experience in a coordination, events, visits or related role. Demonstrated ability to successfully manage multiple high-priority workstreams simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Strong planning, organisational and logistical skills, with exceptional attention to detail. Knowledge of how inward VIP visits to New Zealand are planned and delivered, including an understanding of the Guest of Government programme and associated guidelines, with the ability to apply policy in a practical operational environment. Strong protocol knowledge and experience, particularly in relation to official and ceremonial events. Existing stakeholder relationships across the public sector, particularly with agencies such as the Department of Internal Affairs (Visits and Ceremonial Office), New Zealand Police and Government House, would be highly advantageous. The ability to work independently, exercise sound judgement and know when to escalate issues. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex information and provide clear advice. Experience navigating government environments, including an understanding of government processes, organisational structures and the machinery of government. A calm, composed and professional manner, including under pressure and during time-critical situations. The ability to identify and implement improvements to processes, systems and ways of working. A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute positively to team culture and continuous improvement. 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 Apply today with your CV and cover letter. For a confidential discussion, please email [email protected] To be considered for this position at Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade you must be a NZ citizen. You must be able to obtain and maintain a Top secret security clearance. Ordinarily, to obtain this level of clearance candidates must have sufficient checkable background in countries where meaningful and reliable checks can be undertaken. Where requisite checks are unable to be made, the candidate application may not be able to be progressed. Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a Top secret . Please note that this tool is not part of the formal security clearance process: http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process. Applications close at midnight on 15th September 2026 Please note : This is not a Foreign Policy/diplomatic role. This is a ‘Corporate’ role (known here as a specialist role based in central Wellington, NZ. While it is not usual for specialist staff to be ‘posted’ outside of NZ, from time to time a specialist role overseas becomes available at one of our embassies, high commissions, missions or consulates. To be considered for one of these positions you would need to apply and be considered via a competitive recruitment process. If you do have an interest in an MFAT foreign policy/diplomatic career, you would be welcome to apply for this either via our graduate recruitment or mid-level foreign policy recruitment campaigns.