Principal Advisor - Ethics at Ministry of Health, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Wellington based | Full-time | Permanent
• 4.4 weeks annual leave | Wellness allowance after 12 months
• Lead trusted ethics advice on complex, national health issues
• Midpoint of $143,052, dependent on experience

Ko tōu ake mahi - What you'll do

This is a high'impact Principal Advisor role at the centre of complex and sensitive decision'making across health, disability and reproductive technology ethics. As Principal Advisor, you will provide trusted, high'quality advice to Ministers, ethics committees and the wider sector, helping shape ethically sound policy and practice across Aotearoa. You will lead significant work programmes, influence system'wide approaches, and strengthen ethical capability while ensuring equity, legislative compliance and Treaty obligations are embedded in everything you do.

• Provide senior ethics advice and thought leadership to support Ministers, ethics committees and the sector, informing strategic decision'making and the delivery of Government and Ministry priorities.
• Lead and coordinate complex work programmes and projects, ensuring alignment across the Ministry, ethics committees, government agencies and the wider health and disability sector.
• Build strong, effective relationships and communications, engaging stakeholders through a range of channels and representing Ethics and the Ministry nationally and internationally as required.
• Strengthen capability and quality across the team, providing coaching, mentoring, quality assurance and continuous improvement advice in day'to'day work.
• Ensure robust, equitable and compliant practice, embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations and equity priorities while ensuring all work meets legislative, policy and ethical guideline requirements and reflects best practice.

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you'll bring

• A postgraduate qualification (Master's or equivalent) in ethics, philosophy or a related field.
• Strong understanding of the machinery of government and key issues across the New Zealand health and disability sector.
• Proven experience leading complex, high'profile and sensitive work programmes, with strong influencing and change leadership skills.
• Excellent analytical, advisory and communication capability, able to translate complex technical issues for diverse audiences under pressure.
• Demonstrated commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, partnership with Māori, and building effective relationships across the Ministry and the wider sector.

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 Sunday 15th March.

Please note, you must have the right to work in a full time, permanent position in NZ, and be based in Wellington to be eligible for this position.


Click here view the position description. Please follow the online process at our Careers Website to apply. 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.