Principal Advisor (IIG) - Dunedin Hospital Rebuild at Te Whatu Ora, Otago

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Based in Dunedin Hospital
• Permanent, Full Time

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 New Dunedin Hospital isn't just a building project – it's the largest health infrastructure development ever undertaken in the South Island and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform healthcare for our communities.

This world-class facility will redefine patient care and create an environment where staff can thrive.

Located in the heart of central Dunedin, the project is being delivered in two stages:

• Outpatient Building – opening late 2026
• Inpatient Building – opening early 2031

This is your chance to be part of something truly significant.

As Principal Advisor – Communications and Engagement Lead, you'll be the voice of this landmark project. You'll craft and deliver communications that inspire confidence, build trust, and keep thousands of stakeholders informed and engaged.

Your work will spotlight progress, innovation, and the incredible efforts happening across the project every day.

Your focus will include:

• Stakeholder engagement and risk mitigation – navigating complexity and strengthening relationships.
• Change management and progress updates – ensuring staff, partners, and the community stay connected and informed.
• Strategic alignment – shaping infrastructure communication strategies that reflect local needs and align with organisational priorities.

You'll also gather insights to enhance project delivery and governance and help shape the narrative of a development that matters deeply to Otago and Southland.

Why This Role?

This is a rare opportunity to lead communications for a project that will leave a lasting legacy for generations.

With endless opportunities to showcase the incredible work happening, you'll help tell the story of progress and community impact as this landmark development takes shape.

If you want to make a real difference and be part of history, this is your moment.

About you 

You will have the following:

• A relevant tertiary qualification preferably in a related area (PR, communications, journalism, marketing).
• 7-10 years' experience in a senior communications role, including in the public sector.
• Experience developing and overseeing effective strategies and work plans that deliver on objectives. 
• Experience in a complex environment, including building effective relationships.
• Working across multi-disciplinary teams where several communication activities are needed to achieve an optimal communications outcome.
• Public sector experience and understand the machinery of Government.

Working for 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 Sunday 25^th January. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Kerry Taylor at kerry.taylor@tewhatuora.govt.nz 

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position.