Improvement Lead - Hospital and Specialist Services

Improvement Lead - Hospital and Specialist Services

Permanent, full-time role based in Whangarei

Lead high-impact improvement initiatives that help shape the future of healthcare delivery and improve outcomes for our communities across Te Tai Tokerau

Join a collaborative and influential team where your expertise in programme delivery, change management, and performance improvement will drive measurable results across Hospital and Specialist Services

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

As an Improvement Lead, you will play a pivotal role in leading programmes and projects that improve performance against Government, Ministry of Health, and organisational priorities. Working closely with clinical, operational, and executive leaders, you will identify opportunities for improvement, develop robust programmes of work, and support the successful implementation of change across Hospital and Specialist Services.

This is a highly visible role where you will influence decision-making through data-driven insights, reporting, and stakeholder engagement. You’ll work across multiple services to identify root causes of challenges, develop sustainable solutions, and ensure benefits are realised, ultimately helping to improve patient access, service delivery, and health outcomes for the people of Te Tai Tokerau.

About the Team/Service/Location

The Hospital Development team supports strategic initiatives, service improvement, and transformational change across Hospital and Specialist Services. Working alongside a diverse range of clinical and operational leaders, the team is focused on achieving sustainable improvements that enhance performance, patient experience, and equity of outcomes.

Based in Te Tai Tokerau, you’ll enjoy the opportunity to make a tangible difference while living and working in one of New Zealand’s most unique and beautiful regions.

About You

You’ll bring a combination of programme leadership expertise, analytical thinking, and exceptional relationship management skills. You will have:

• Significant experience working within the healthcare sector, including leading complex projects, programmes, or service improvement initiatives
• A relevant project management qualification and a strong understanding of programme and change management methodologies
• Proven experience developing reports, business cases, presentations, and performance reporting to support informed decision-making
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to build credibility and influence across clinical, operational, and executive groups
• A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and improving equitable health outcomes for Māori and all communities

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To apply please click apply now. All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal by 6 September 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Michelle Apetera at NL-Jobs@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.

Job Reference: WHA01576

Location: North Island - Northland - Whangarei

Job type: Permanent Full time

Closes: 06-Sep-2026