Group Manager Public Health Strategy and Policyat Ministry of Health -

Lead national public health strategy and policy

• shape advice and programmes that support Government priorities and improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders.Influence at the highest levels
• work closely with Ministers, senior leaders, and system partners on complex, high'profile public health issues.Senior leadership with real scale and impact
• lead senior leaders and a large, multidisciplinary team in a complex, fast'moving policy environment.Wellington Based | Fulltime | PermanentMidpoint of $224,867, dependent on experienceKo tōu ake mahi
• What you'll doAs Group Manager, Public Health Strategy and Policy, you will provide strategic leadership over the development and delivery of the Government's public health priorities, shaping policy and programmes that protect and improve the health of all New Zealanders.

• What you'll doProvide strategic leadership for the development, delivery, and oversight of public health strategy and policy, ensuring alignment with Government priorities, Cabinet intent, and the Ministry's role.Lead and oversee all public health strategy and policy work, including cross'government, sector, and community engagement on complex public health issues.Partner closely with the Director of Public Health and senior leaders to prioritise public health interventions and ensure robust monitoring, evaluation, and use of evidence.Oversee key programmes of work and ensure strong collaboration with the National Public Health Service and the wider health sector.Lead and coordinate major programmes across the Unit, Group, and Ministry, ensuring high'quality, timely, and evidence'based advice is delivered and risks are well managed.Provide strategic direction and planning for the Public Health Strategy and Policy Unit, supporting delivery of the Public Health Agency's vision and priorities.Contribute as a senior leader across the Ministry, influencing system'wide outcomes and organisational performance.Lead, develop, and support senior leaders and teams, fostering a high'performing, inclusive culture with a strong focus on equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations.Ko ngā pūkenga ōu
• What you'll bringProven senior leadership experience with the ability to set strategic direction and lead complex, system'level programmes of work.Deep understanding and experience with public health systems, policy development, and public health legislation, including navigating statutory and legal obligations.Strong strategic thinking and planning capability, translating Government priorities into clear, actionable programmes and measurable outcomes.Highly developed relationship'management and influencing skills across government agencies, the health sector, and external stakeholders.Experience leading organisational change and developing senior leaders in complex, fast'moving environments.Excellent communication and advisory skills, with credibility operating at the senior executive and Ministerial interface.Sound judgement and ability to manage risk, complexity, and competing priorities.A strong commitment to equity, cultural competence, and embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles in leadership and decision'making.Ngā hua o tō mātou whare
• What we bringDiscover a world of opportunities for personal and professional growth.

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• How to applyApplications close on Tuesday 31 March 2026.

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