Principal Advisor at Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

18 Jun, 26

Salary

143052.0

Posted On

20 Mar, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning, Reporting, Strategic Decision-Making, Capacity-Building, Thought Leadership, Data Collection, Stakeholder Engagement, Risk Identification, Programme Adaptation, Facilitation, Project Oversight, Strategic Advice, Technical Advice, Data-Driven Decision-Making

Industry

Government Administration

Description

Support Polynesian Health Corridors programme performance and drive quality improvement Fixed term opportunity till July 2029 Wellington based Salary midpoint of $143,052. Actual salary dependent on your experience The Polynesian Health Corridors programme supports health system strengthening across six Polynesian countries (Tonga, Tuvalu, Tokelau, Tonga, Niue, Samoa) and delivers on its objectives via three pillars (Non-communicable Diseases, Access to Essential Medicines, and Health Security). The programme is supported by a cross-pillar Programme Management team. We are seeking a Principal Advisor to lead the monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL), and reporting functions for the Polynesian Health Corridors (PHC) Programme. This is a high-impact role, where your work will guide strategic decision-making, and deliver actionable insights to improve health outcomes across Polynesian countries. We're looking for an experienced highly organised Principal Advisor to join our Programme Management team and support the delivery of key initiatives that support the Polynesian Health Corridors programme. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful work that supports strengthening health systems and partnerships across the Pacific. Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do The Principal Advisor MEL will be responsible for leading the monitoring, evaluation, learning (MEL), and reporting system for the PHC Programme. You will provide expert advice, and lead capacity-building efforts to ensure the programme meets its objectives and delivers quality, results-based reporting to key stakeholders. Provide expert thought leadership for the strategic development, and international implementation of the PHC Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL)framework, including oversight of programme indicators, targets, baseline development and data collection tools. Reporting to the PHC Manager, you will work with the Lead Programme Management and technical pillar leads to provide high quality, timely results-based reporting to PHC governance groups and external partners including MFAT and PHC countries. This will particularly focus on progress towards achieving intended outcomes (using quantitative and qualitative measures), identifying risks, and proposing opportunities for programme adaptation. Design and facilitate MEL training, learning and knowledge sharing with PHC team, relevant external partners, including in Polynesian countries. Provide high level- strategic and technical advice, expertise on programme delivery approaches for technical pillars, the Programme Manager, Polynesian Health Corridors and the Group Manager, Global Health. Convene and facilitate engagement with key internal and external stakeholders to build relationships to support programme processes, including in the lead up to key programme milestone due dates. Lead or oversee periodic programme and/or thematic reviews and evaluations, in consultation with PHC colleagues. Oversee complex projects and workstreams, applying strategic and tactical approaches to achieve high-quality outcomes. This position description is intended as an insight to the main tasks and responsibilities required in the role and may be subject to change in consultation with the job holder. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in shaping the success of the PHC Programme, ensuring that high-quality practices drive continuous improvement and meaningful health outcomes for Polynesian countries. If you’re passionate about data-driven decision-making and improving public health, we encourage you to apply! Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring Proven expertise in planning, monitoring, evaluation, and learning within large-scale health programmes. Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills, with experience designing and implementing MEL frameworks. Proven practical international development experience and donor reporting (pref MFAT) Experience with development programmes in the Pacific. Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. Strong communication and reporting skills, including experience providing high-level advice to senior management. commitment to equity and improving health outcomes, particularly in Polynesian communities. 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 Thursday 26 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 the monitoring, evaluation, learning (MEL), and reporting system for the Polynesian Health Corridors (PHC) Programme, providing expert advice and leading capacity-building efforts. Responsibilities include developing the MEL framework, producing results-based reporting for governance groups and external partners, and overseeing periodic programme reviews.