Manager, Addiction and Suicide Prevention Policyat Ministry of Health -

apartmentMinistry of Health placeWellington calendar_month 
Influence nationwide addiction and suicide prevention outcomes through high'impact policy leadershipWork with leaders across the health and wider government sectors to drive meaningful system change on priority work that improves the lives of New ZealandersWellington Based | Fulltime | PermanentMidpoint of $164,561, dependent on experience Ko tōu ake mahi
  • What you'll do As Manager Addiction and Suicide Prevention Policy, you'll lead the development of strategic policy and drive system-wide initiatives that make a measurable difference to health and wellbeing outcomes.

This is your opportunity to influence at a national level, champion equity, and strengthen partnerships across the health and wider government sector.If you're an experienced and trusted leader with a passion for improving the lives of New Zealanders and supporting your team to thrive, this role offers the platform to create a meaningful, lasting impact.

Lead strategic policy development and implementation relating to addiction and suicide prevention, ensuring initiatives align with Government and Ministry priorities while providing clear, consistent reporting on progress and outcomes.Apply and enable critical thinking and thought leadership to design policies and programmes that advance government priorities, with a strong focus on equity and improved outcomes for priority populations based on need.Drive key programmes of work across the Group, Ministry and in partnership with Health New Zealand, ensuring planning, delivery, and evaluation contribute to government objectives and long-term system improvements.Provide strong leadership to your team, fostering capability, supporting professional growth, and ensuring high-quality, timely, contextual and strategically relevant policy advice.Build and maintain collaborative relationships across the Ministry, the wider health sector, government agencies, and external partners to enable effective influence, partnership, and delivery.Ko ngā pūkenga ōu
  • What you'll bring Demonstrated policy and strategy expertise, supported by a tertiary qualification in health or a related field (or equivalent experience), and a strong understanding of the machinery of government.Outstanding verbal and written communication and advisory skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, influential messages for diverse audiences, including Ministers.Proven leadership and management capability, with significant experience developing people, building high'performing teams, and modelling public service values.Strong commitment to evidence'informed policy, integrating data, analysis, equity considerations, and diverse community insights into high'quality advice and decision'making.Collaborative relationship'building skills, with a track record of successfully working with stakeholders (internal and external) to achieve shared outcomes across complex sectors.A solid understanding of the mental health, addiction and suicide prevention sector, including current policy challenges; lived experience of mental health and/or addiction is highly valued, alongside strong cultural competence and commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations.Ngā hua o tō mātou whare
  • What we bringDiscover 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 19 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 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.

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