Business Lead - Te Ikaroa - Hauora Māori Service at Te Whatu Ora, Hawkes Bay

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Full-time, permanent position
• Based in Te Ikaroa, Central Region

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country's largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 5 million New Zealanders.

We provide essential hospital, specialist, and community health services across 80+ locations — from large urban centres to rural towns and remote communities.

Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders by delivering equitable, accessible and innovative care.

About the Role

The Business Lead plays a pivotal role in supporting the Regional Director by overseeing office operations, driving strategic initiatives, and leading the management and development of projects.  As key advisor in the regional leadership team, the Business Lead provides decision-making support, represents the Regional Director when required, and fosters strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. This role ensures alignment of office activities with organisational goals, including both strategic oversight and operational excellence.

About the Team/Service

As the Hauora Māori Service of Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ) our core role is to ensure New Zealanders have better and more timely access to health care.  The devolution of resources and decision making to the regions ensures those closest to service users and whānau are involved in decisions on how healthcare is delivered. We are committed to ensuring our operating model is responsive to the needs of Māori. 

About You

With a strong background in business support and project management, you excel at leading and developing initiatives across various areas of expertise, particularly in governance. You are a confident and articulate communicator, skilled at engaging diverse audiences and building effective relationships with a broad range of stakeholders.

You will have:

• Experience in business operations or a related field with at least 5-8 years of experience in a similar role within a large organisation
• Strong acumen and understanding of financial management and strategic budget allocation 
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft key governance documents and materials
• Knowledge and practical experience in applying Mātauranga Māori and Kaupapa Māori approaches
• Proven analytical skills and problem-solving skills, with experience in the health sector considered an advantage

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 January 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Zerissa Ong on zerissa.ong@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Due to the December holiday period, this advert will remain open for an extended duration. Screening and interviews will commence from mid-January. We appreciate your patience and look forward to connecting with you in the new year.

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change affected kaimahi (staff) will be given preference and priority for this position.