Jamie McGahan
Wellington
Summary
I am a policy analyst with a background in criminal justice who has an interest in all things social policy. Through my master’s research, I analysed inspectorate reports to identify practical ways to reduce violence and aggression in Aotearoa New Zealand prisons, translating insights into clear policy recommendations. I am motivated by understanding what is happening on the ground and using evidence to support better decisions. I work well in fast-paced environments and enjoy tackling complex issues to deliver clear, practical advice.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Policy Analyst, Regional and Communities
The Ministry of Social Development
, Wellington
08.2023 - Current
- Supported the development of policy options through the Temporary Accommodation Assistance enduring solution work, which involved navigating joint ministerial responsibility, and both cross-agency and MSD-wide differing perspectives.
- Led fast-paced technical advice to the Minister on extending the TAA payment to people who own their homes in trust. A highly political issue we had to navigate, involved matters such as the issue being outside of MSD's usual scope of work.
- Drafted the case studies for the Regional Public Service contributing to strengthened reporting and improved visibility at the national level.
- Supported work assessing the effectiveness of MSD community services, including leading an in-depth evidence assessment of one programme the Elders Abuse Response Service.
Tutor of Human Services and Social Work
Univeristy of Canterbury
, Christchurch
02.2023 - 06.2023
- Mentored and tutored first and second-year university students who were learning to navigate university and the Human Services and Social Work subject matter for the first time.
Student Internship
Ara Poutama
Waikeria, Hamilton
09.2022 - 02.2023
- Contributed to strategy development for the Waikeria Prison new build, supporting planning in a complex operational environment.
- Worked alongside the Waikeria Prison Director and gained hands-on experience in conducting research, analysing data, and developing policy proposals.
Education
Master of Criminal Justice -
University of Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand, NZ04-2023
Bachelors of Criminal Justice -
University of Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand, NZ10-2021
Skills
- Relationship management
- Cross-agency collaboration
- Insight gathering, reporting, and translating into advice
- Operating in fast-paced, sensitive contexts
- Clear communication
- Foundations in both criminal justice and public sector policy
Affiliations
Volunteer, Riccarton Community Patrol, 2020–2023.
Timeline
Policy Analyst, Regional and Communities
The Ministry of Social Development
08.2023 - Current
Tutor of Human Services and Social Work
Univeristy of Canterbury
02.2023 - 06.2023
Student Internship
Ara Poutama
09.2022 - 02.2023
Master of Criminal Justice -
University of Canterbury
Bachelors of Criminal Justice -
University of Canterbury