Chief Clinical Advisor ODPH at Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

27 May, 26

Salary

200948.0

Posted On

26 Feb, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Clinical Expertise, Public Health Medicine, Vocational Registration, Strategic Clinical Leadership, Policy Influence, System Change, Systems Thinking, Health Reforms, Government Processes, Te Tiriti o Waitangi Engagement, Communication, Organisational Skills, Influencing Skills, Data Interpretation, Equity Focus

Industry

Government Administration

Description

Use your clinical expertise to shape national public health strategy and deliver better, fairer health outcomes Wellington based | Full-time | Permanent Midpoint of $200,948 dependent on experience Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of public health in Aotearoa New Zealand at a system‑wide level. As Chief Clinical Advisor, you will sit at the heart of the Office of the Director of Public Health, providing trusted, strategic clinical leadership across the Ministry of Health and the Public Health Agency. You will influence high‑impact policy, regulatory and system decisions, steward the performance of the public health system, and help drive equitable health outcomes for communities most underserved. This role offers national reach, strategic depth, and the chance to apply clinical public health expertise where it matters most. Provide system‑wide clinical leadership and advice across the full breadth of the Public Health Agency and Manatū Hauora, applying local and international evidence to inform programmes, projects and policy development. Lead and partner across portfolios and teams, acting as a senior clinical advisor and business partner to coordinate and assure delivery of work across the Office of the Director of Public Health and aligned functional teams. Interpret data and evidence to monitor and improve health outcomes, with a strong focus on reducing inequities experienced by Māori, Pacific and disability communities, and on determinants of health, Te Ao Māori and holistic health models. Deliver high‑quality strategic advice and thought leadership, including preparing and reviewing advice, briefings and reports for senior leaders and Ministers, and representing the Ministry in cross‑government and external forums. Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring Extensive clinical expertise in public health medicine, with specialist vocational registration and current Annual Practising Certificate. Proven experience providing strategic clinical leadership and influencing public health strategy, policy and system change. Strong systems thinking capability, with deep understanding of health reforms, government processes, and the machinery of government. Demonstrated commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including meaningful engagement with Māori, understanding the impacts of colonisation, and applying equity‑led public health practice. Exceptional communication, organisational and influencing skills, with the ability to convey complex clinical advice to Ministers, senior leaders and diverse stakeholders while leading collaboratively across the system. 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 Wednesday 11 March 2026. Click here to view the position description. Please follow the online process at our Careers Website to apply. 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 not utilising recruitment agencies at this time. If you are interested in applying for this position, please do so directly through our careers page. All candidates will be notified of the outcome of their application via email. Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks, and a criminal check. 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 Clinical Advisor will provide trusted, strategic clinical leadership across the Ministry of Health and the Public Health Agency, influencing high-impact policy and regulatory decisions. This role involves stewarding the performance of the public health system and driving equitable health outcomes, particularly for underserved communities.