Deputy Director-General - Performance and Governance at Ministry of Health, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Play an instrumental role in improving health outcomes for all New Zealanders
• Influence decisions at the highest level with evidence-led, future-focused performance and governance advice
• Be a trusted adviser to the Director General of Health, Ministers and their offices

What you'll do - Ko tōu ake mahi

The Ministry of Health is looking for a bold and strategic leader to help shape the future of New Zealand's health system. As Deputy Director-General, Performance and Governance, you'll sit at the heart of New Zealand's health system—leading performance, accountability, and governance across the sector.

This is a role with real influence. You'll be a key point of contact with Ministers and Government—trusted to deliver strategic advice, drive system-wide performance improvement, and ensure every decision and investment is aligned to achieving the Government's key priorities and objectives.

You'll lead a high-performing group that supports the Director-General of Health in delivering on the Ministry's objectives. From overseeing Crown entity governance and system performance to strengthening workforce and investment monitoring, your leadership will help shape a health system that delivers for all New Zealanders.As an experienced people leader, you'll demonstrate your ability and commitment to building capability of staff within the group and across the wider Ministry.

What you'll lead – He aha koe e arahi ai

• Monitoring and assurance functions assessing and advising on the performance of the health system and health entities, including investment and workforce strategies
• Advisory functions for the Director General, providing trusted second opinion advice
• Day-to-day relationships with Ministers of Health and their offices, including staffing of ministerial offices and associated functions
• Relationships with senior leaders in Health entities, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement

What you'll bring - Ko ngā pūkenga ōu

You'll bring a strong mix of strategic thinking, public sector leadership, political acumen, and deep expertise in system performance and governance. With a commitment to integrity and accountability, you'll be confident navigating complex, high-stakes environments and advising at the highest levels. Your ability to use data and insights to inform decisions, anticipate risks, and align performance with long-term goals will be key to driving meaningful change.

You'll also be a collaborative and influential leader—skilled at building trusted relationships with Ministers, Crown entities, and sector leaders. With a sound understanding of governance and statutory obligations, you'll ensure performance frameworks are robust, inclusive, and focused on delivering results that matter

What we bring - Ngā hua o tō mātou whare

The Ministry has an exciting and challenging work programme. Through your leadership of the Performance and Governance group and as a member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), you'll be at the forefront of decisions that will help shape New Zealand's health system for decades to come.

Join us today and be part of the team driving to deliver improved health outcomes for all New Zealanders.

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.

How to apply - Me pēhea te tono mai -

Applications close on Thursday 10^th July 2025

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.

 Please note: 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.