Embassy vacancies

Policy Adviser (Trade and Economic) 

The New Zealand Embassy in Tokyo is looking for a locally employed Policy Adviser, for a three-year fixed term with the possibility of extension. This person will promote New Zealand’s trade and economic relationship with Japan through policy advice, research, reporting, and outreach and engagement with a wide range of stakeholders. 

About the role – Kōrero mō te tūranga   

You will work with others in the New Zealand Embassy, and with contacts outside the Embassy, to advance New Zealand’s trade and economic relationship with Japan. This is a great opportunity to work on policy advice and advocacy, think strategically, build relationships and work in a vibrant team environment. Japan is one of New Zealand’s closest partners, and we cooperate in a wide range of areas to promote mutual interests, advance opportunities and address challenges. Now is a great time to be involved in the relationship.

You will: 

  • Prepare research and reports relating to Japan-New Zealand trade and economic issues, and on economic developments in Japan.
  • Support the Embassy’s engagement with Japanese government officials, business representatives, think tanks, academia, and other trade and economic contacts.
  • Organise programmes for visiting New Zealand delegations.
  • Manage events and activities to strengthen New Zealand’s relationships with Japanese trade and economic contacts.
  • Provide translation and interpretation as required.   

The appointment range for this role is JPY6,430,000 to JPY8,022,000 – negotiable based on experience.

The successful applicant will be employed on local terms and conditions. Obtaining the appropriate work visa, if required, will be facilitated. Relocation to Tokyo where required will be undertaken at the expense of the applicant.

Who are we looking for? – Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

  • Relevant tertiary qualification and work experience.
  • Well-developed research and analytical skills.
  • Strong planning and organisational ability.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to build good relationships and work well in a team.
  • Excellent spoken and written English and Japanese. The working language in the Embassy is English.

You must be able to obtain and maintain appropriate security clearances for this role.

Why work for the Embassy? – Ngā hua o te mahi i te Aka Aorere

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options.  

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

The New Zealand Embassy in Tokyo represents the New Zealand Government in diplomacy, trade, international development and consular services in Japan. We do this by building strong and meaningful relationships and networks with stakeholders in Japan. 

The Embassy is part of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s global network. Our people represent New Zealand at home and internationally, to make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous. By building connections with 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

For a copy of the position description please refer to the Documents section at the bottom of this page.

To apply, please email your CV, and a cover letter of no more than two pages, setting out why you are applying and how you bring the skills we are looking for, to the New Zealand Embassy in Tokyo at tky@mfat.govt.nz. Applications close at 5:00pm (Japan time) on Monday 18 August 2025. 

Only applications that have been emailed to the above address will be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Please note:  If the successful candidate has worked or lived in New Zealand and is subsequently employed as locally engaged staff in a New Zealand Embassy or High Commission, they may, subject to individual circumstances, have New Zealand Tax Residency obligations. We advise any applicant who may be in this situation to discuss their tax residency status with the New Zealand Inland Revenue (IRD) and determine any potential personal tax obligations to IRD.

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