Principal Data Insights Analyst
About this role
Lead insight at the heart of DOC’s conservation regulatory system and help shape national performance
Flexible working options
Wellington preferred, other locations considered
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa.
He angitūtanga | About the role
The Principal Data and Insights Analyst role sits within Regulatory Services in the Biodiversity, Heritage and Visitors Group. The team plays a critical role in enabling well-informed, evidence-based regulatory decisions that support positive conservation outcomes across Aotearoa.
As the Principal Data and Insights Analyst, you will lead insight at a system level, supporting DOC to understand how its regulatory framework is performing, where risks and opportunities lie, and how decisions can be strengthened through robust evidence. You will work closely with leaders from across multi-disciplinary teams to shape thinking, inform direction, and influence outcomes across a complex and evolving operating environment.
This role is central to DOC’s Regulatory Modernisation Programme, which is reshaping how permissions and regulatory activities are delivered. You will provide trusted, organisation-wide insight that connects data, systems, and business context, supporting consistent, transparent and effective regulatory decision-making.
The position will be focused on:
Leading the design, delivery and ongoing improvement of core reporting and Power BI dashboards for Regulatory Services
Providing strategic and operational insight to support planning, performance reporting, and decision-making
Identifying trends, risks, and opportunities to improve regulatory performance and outcomes
Translating complex data into clear, actionable insights for non-technical audiences, including senior leaders
Acting as a connector across DOC, translating business needs into analytical solutions and influencing data and system priorities
Lifting data quality, consistency and analytical maturity, including setting standards for reporting, documentation and best practice
Supporting and coaching others to build confidence and capability in using data effectively
Supporting DOC to work as an honourable Treaty partner by promoting Māori engagement and involvement in our work.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
We are looking for a highly experienced data and insights professional who operates with credibility, sound judgement, and a strong systems perspective. You will be comfortable working in complexity, influencing at a senior level, and using data to drive meaningful improvements in regulatory outcomes.
You will have a qualification in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics or a related quantitative field
If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:
At least 5 years’ experience in a senior or principal data or insights role, within a regulatory or complex operational environment.
Strong SQL capability and experience with analytical language, such as Python or R, alongside proven delivery of scalable Power BI reporting for business users.
Ability to translate complex or ambiguous problems into clear, defensible, evidence-based insights that drive action.
Experience working with operational or workflow data (e.g. case management systems such as ServiceNow) and applying a system-wide performance lens.
Strong communicator who can explain technical concepts in plain language, build trusted relationships, and collaborate effectively across teams.
Applied understanding of Māori data sovereignty, including working with data in ways that respect Māori rights, interests and tikanga, and support ethical, responsible use in partnership with Māori.
Desirable:
Familiarity with regulatory, permissions or consenting environments
Exposure to modern data platforms and tools (e.g. DBT, Snowflake)
He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?
DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default.
We also support flexible working arrangements for our kaimahi across Aotearoa, with options considered based on the role and in discussion with your leader.
Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now
Apply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation. We’re unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants we did not shortlist.
If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate.
Please indicate in your cover letter your salary expectations for the role.
Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment.
Please note, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.
Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Thursday 25 June 2026.
Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Annie Colebrook at [email protected]
Company at a glance
The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai is a great place to work for anyone who is passionate about nature and the environment. As the government agency charged with conserving Aotearoa New Zealand’s natural and historic heritage, we are responsible for caring for the land, water and our native species.
We have team members spread throughout the country who work hard to ensure that Papatūānuku can thrive. They perform a huge range of tasks, from specialists undertaking ground-breaking projects through to support staff who enable our mahi; and rangers operating at the forefront of conservation.
The work we do impacts the people of Aotearoa New Zealand and our many visitors and will have continued and far-reaching effects for generations to come. Our commitment to being an honourable Treaty Partner and collaboration with local iwi, community groups and businesses is critical to setting the foundations for future conservation success.
We support flexible working, and a transparent and collaborative culture, as well as career development and training opportunities. If you are interested in joining a team of people who love what they do, find out more about a career with the Department of Conservation.
Top Benefits
- Flexible Working Arrangements
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