Policy Director Sector Policy

• Wellington based | Permanent | Full-time
• 4.8 weeks annual leave | Wellness allowance after 12 months
• Bring strategic oversight, and deep policy expertise to complex and sensitive issues

Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do

As the Policy Director – Sector Policy, you will play a pivotal strategic leadership role within the Strategy and Policy Group, shaping the Ministry’s policy agenda and ensuring it delivers high-quality, evidence-based outcomes for New Zealand.

Working closely with senior leaders, you’ll bring thought leadership, strategic oversight, and deep policy expertise to complex and sensitive issues - while building strong relationships across government and the wider health sector. This is a unique opportunity to influence at the highest levels, strengthen policy capability, and lead work that makes a real difference.

This role leads and contributes to policy advice across Aged Care, Primary and Community Health, Maternity Family and Child Policy, Disability and Social Sector interfaces. You will bring extensive experience working across sectors and delivering improved outcomes through a range of policy levers, including in environments with mixed public and private service provision.

• Drive strategic direction: Partner with the Group Manager and leadership team to shape, align, and deliver the Group’s policy strategy and work programme.
• Connect and influence: Work across teams, the Ministry, government, and the health system to identify priorities, address emerging issues, and build strong, trusted relationships.
• Provide expert advice: Act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, offering clear, evidence-based advice on complex, sensitive issues while identifying and managing risks.
• Build capability and leadership: Mentor managers and principal advisors, strengthen policy frameworks and skills, and contribute to lifting policy capability across the Ministry.
• Lead and deliver outcomes: Oversee and lead programmes of work, ensuring high-quality planning, effective delivery, and alignment with organisational priorities—including upholding Treaty of Waitangi obligations.

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring

• Strong policy leadership background: Tertiary qualification (or equivalent experience) with extensive senior-level experience shaping and influencing complex policy agendas.
• Deep policy and system expertise: Proven understanding of public policy, legislative frameworks, and the machinery of government, including operating at the political interface.
• Strategic and analytical capability: Demonstrated ability to set direction, lead programmes of work, manage risk, and deliver outcomes in complex and dynamic environments.
• Exceptional communication and influence: Highly skilled in providing clear, evidence-based advice and building trusted relationships across government, the health sector, and stakeholders.
• People leadership and adaptability: Experience developing capability in others, with strong mentoring skills, resilience, cultural competence, and a commitment to equity and Treaty of Waitangi principles.

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 Friday 19 June 2026.

View the position description here, and to 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.