Senior Policy Analyst at Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

16 Aug, 26

Salary

120997.0

Posted On

18 May, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Public Policy Expertise, Analytical Thinking, Stakeholder Engagement, Legislative Drafting, Regulatory Impact Assessment, Implementation Planning, Policy Evaluation, Data Analysis, Mentoring, Strategic Planning, Written Communication, Verbal Communication, Collaboration, Research

Industry

Government Administration

Description

Lead meaningful policy work on mental health, addiction and suicide prevention that shapes health outcomes for New Zealanders. Apply evidence, insights, and strong analysis to influence system decisions. Drive projects, mentor others, and strengthen policy capability across the Ministry. Wellington based | Fulltime | Permanent Midpoint of $120,997, dependent on experience Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do As a Senior Policy Analyst, you’ll work in a dynamic and complex policy environment where your expertise will directly influence decisions that improve health outcomes for New Zealanders. This role offers the opportunity to lead meaningful work, guide others through the policy process, and strengthen policy capability across a system committed to improving equity and achieving better outcomes. Prepare high‑quality policy documents, legislation, guidelines, and timely advice that supports effective decision‑making. Lead and apply the full policy process—from scoping and problem definition through to regulatory impact assessment, implementation planning, and evaluation. Use data, research, insights, and evidence to shape robust strategies and policy recommendations. Provide leadership across projects and workstreams, ensuring planning, delivery, and advice are strategic, well‑executed, and aligned with equity and Te Tiriti obligations. Build strong relationships and contribute to policy capability by peer reviewing work, mentoring others, and engaging confidently across the Ministry, health sector, and wider government. Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring A tertiary qualification in health or a related field, or equivalent experience. Strong public policy expertise with a solid understanding of government processes, structures, and decision‑making. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to convey complex ideas clearly and succinctly. The ability to quickly absorb new information and work confidently with unfamiliar or complex topics. A sharp analytical mindset, with curiosity and a willingness to ask the right questions to get to the heart of an issue. Strong relationship‑building and collaboration skills, with a commitment to delivering high‑quality work and results. An interest in cross-agency suicide prevention work, experience in this sector is useful. 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 31 May 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

Lead policy development regarding mental health, addiction, and suicide prevention to improve health outcomes for New Zealanders. This includes preparing high-quality legislation and advice while mentoring others to strengthen policy capability across the Ministry.