Principal Advisor at Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

07 Jun, 26

Salary

143052.0

Posted On

09 Mar, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Health Emergency Management, Policy Advice, Strategic Leadership, Cross-Agency Collaboration, Emergency Management Planning, Response Operations, Training Framework Development, Legislative Compliance, Equity, Te Tiriti O Waitangi, Political Awareness, Stakeholder Engagement, Project Delivery, System Resilience, Innovation Championing

Industry

Government Administration

Description

Use your expertise to strengthen system‑wide resilience Guide critical decisions that protect communities nationwide Wellington based | Permanent | Fulltime Midpoint of $143,052, dependent on experience Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do As a Principal Advisor, you’ll operate at the heart of high‑impact programmes, guiding decision‑makers with evidence‑informed insights and driving initiatives that strengthen resilience across the health and government sectors. This is an opportunity to influence system‑wide outcomes, champion innovation, and ensure our work reflects equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations. If you’re motivated by meaningful challenge, cross‑agency collaboration, and the chance to leave a lasting legacy, this role offers a platform to do exactly that. In this role you will: Lead aspects of the Ministry’s emergency management work programme, ensuring alignment, delivery, and continuous improvement. Develop and support the implementation of a training framework that builds staff capability to meet legislative emergency management responsibilities. Provide strategic thought leadership and expert policy advice that advances Government and Ministry priorities. Lead and influence cross‑Ministry and sector‑wide initiatives to ensure cohesive, high‑quality delivery of key programmes. Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring Deep expertise in health emergency management, including strong knowledge of the Health and Disability system, emergency management sector, relevant legislation, and the National Resilience System. Proven experience leading complex emergency management planning, responses, and operations—ideally within the health system or during public health outbreaks. Strong strategic and technical leadership capability, with a track record of delivering high‑quality policy advice, shaping work programmes, and supporting effective project delivery. Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills, with the ability to engage confidently across government, sector partners, and diverse stakeholder groups. A commitment to equity, Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations, and operating with sound judgement, political awareness, and a collaborative approach in complex environments. 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 23rd March 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 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 Principal Advisor will lead aspects of the Ministry’s emergency management work programme, focusing on alignment, delivery, and continuous improvement. This includes developing training frameworks to build staff capability and providing strategic thought leadership and expert policy advice to advance priorities.