Chief Advisor at Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

15 Jun, 26

Salary

183609.0

Posted On

17 Mar, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Strategic Advice, Public Health, Mental Health, System-wide Programmes, Policy Expertise, Regulatory Expertise, Executive Interface, Government Relations, Stakeholder Management, Leadership, Risk Management, Culturally Competent Practice, Evidence-Based Advice, Political Awareness, Communication

Industry

Government Administration

Description

Senior strategic advisor to the DDG, shaping national public and mental health priorities Lead complex, system‑wide programmes at the political and executive interface Influential leadership role across government, the health sector, and international forums Wellington or Auckland Based | Fulltime | Permanent Midpoint of $183,609, dependent on experience Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do As Chief Advisor, you will be a trusted senior advisor to the Deputy Director‑General, providing strategic leadership across the Public Health Agency and Mental Health Group. Working at the centre of decision‑making, you will help shape the Group’s future direction, drive delivery of priority programmes, and represent the Ministry at the highest levels across government and the health system. This is a pivotal role for an experienced leader who thrives in complex environments and brings deep policy, regulatory, and system expertise. Ko tōu ake mahi – What you’ll do Provide strategic advice and leadership to the DDG on the Group’s priorities, development, and future capability Lead and deliver high‑priority programmes of work across the Group and the wider Ministry, aligned to Government objectives Represent the Ministry and the DDG at senior cross‑agency, DCE‑level, and external forums, including select committees and international engagements Work closely with senior leaders to resolve complex, system‑wide issues and enable delivery on government priorities Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships across the Ministry, health sector, government agencies, and key stakeholders Provide leadership on projects and advice, ensuring work is well‑planned, evidence‑based, and delivers high‑quality outcomes Ensure all advice and activity reflects Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations and supports culturally competent practice Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring Significant experience advising on complex public and/or mental health issues, including at the political interface Deep understanding of public policy, regulatory systems, and the machinery of government Extensive senior leadership experience, with a proven ability to influence, lead, and deliver outcomes in complex organisations Strong relationship‑building and influencing skills, with credibility across government, the health sector, and international settings Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, able to convey complex issues clearly and succinctly Sound judgement, political awareness, and the ability to manage risk, sensitivity, and confidentiality Demonstrated commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, equity, and culturally responsive practice A relevant tertiary qualification and/or equivalent senior‑level experience Ngā hua o tō mātou whare - What we bring Discover a world of opportunities for personal and professional growth. We're not just a workplace; we're a whanau that values your well-being and the importance of work-life balance. At Manatū Hauora, we value the authentic ‘you’, ensuring that every voice is heard and every perspective matters. Your wellness is our priority, with comprehensive support and resources to keep you thriving. Join us today and be part of a team dedicated to improving healthcare. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings. Please contact us if you require any support to ensure the recruitment process is accessible. Me pēhea te tono mai - How to apply Applications close on Sunday 5 April 2026. Click here to view the position description and apply, please follow the online process at our Careers Website. Please ensure you upload a CV and covering letter with all applications. If you have any questions, email the recruitment team at recruitment@health.govt.nz. We are reviewing applications as they come in and interviews may take place during the advertising period. Please note if we receive a high number of applications this job may close prior to the closing date. We are not receiving recruitment agency submissions at this time. The Ministry of Health is steward of the New Zealand health system and the lead advisor to Government on health. Our overarching goal is for all New Zealanders to live longer and in better health to have an improved quality of life. As steward, we set the direction across the health system so we and others can make informed decisions and prioritise resources accordingly. We advise the Government on health policy, and regulate and monitor the health system, to ensure all New Zealanders have access to health care for better health outcomes. Our role is to create an environment where all New Zealanders are supported to stay well and where all parts of the health system are supported to operate at their best.

Responsibilities

The Chief Advisor will serve as a trusted senior advisor to the Deputy Director-General, providing strategic leadership across the Public Health Agency and Mental Health Group, helping to shape future direction and drive priority program delivery. This role involves representing the Ministry at the highest levels across government and the health system, resolving complex system-wide issues, and ensuring advice reflects Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations.