Lead Health Security

• Wellington based | Full-time

• Fixed term until 30 June 2029

• Lead health partnerships across Polynesia and make a lasting impact.

• Midpoint of $145,198 dependent on experience

Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do

This is a unique opportunity to lead a high-performing team delivering impactful health programmes that strengthen health systems across Polynesia. As Lead – Health Security, you'll combine strategic programme leadership with people leadership, guiding the Health Security and Access to Essential Medicines pillars while building strong partnerships across government, the health sector, and Polynesian countries. Working at the intersection of public health, international engagement, and programme delivery, you'll play a key role in improving health outcomes, developing team capability, and shaping the future direction of the Polynesian Health Corridors programme.

• Lead strategic programme delivery by overseeing the design, planning, implementation, monitoring and reporting of the Health Security and Access to Essential Medicines pillars.

• Provide leadership and support to your team through coaching, mentoring, capability development and performance management, creating an inclusive and collaborative team culture that delivers results.

• Build and maintain influential relationships with Polynesian country counterparts, government agencies, clinical leaders, suppliers and key stakeholders to support programme objectives and strengthen partnerships.

• Drive programme performance and continuous improvement by managing risks and issues, leading adaptive management practices, and ensuring high-quality, timely delivery of work across the programme.

• Provide strategic advice and leadership on public health, medicines management and health security matters, supporting senior leaders and fostering effective cross-pillar ways of working across the programme.

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring

• Relevant qualification or equivalent experience, with the ability to provide strategic advice and make sound decisions in complex environments.

• Proven experience leading, coaching and developing high-performing teams, while building capability for current and future priorities.

• Strong people leadership skills, including succession planning and managing critical roles to ensure organisational sustainability.

• Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across a wide range of internal and external partners.

• Demonstrated commitment to equity, cultural competence and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations, supported by strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

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 Midnight Wednesday 13th August 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.

Please note: 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.