Senior Advisor Cancer Control at Ministry of Health, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Make a meaningful difference to cancer and palliative care outcomes across the Pacific through strategic leadership and partnership.
• Wellington Based | Fulltime | Fixed term till June 2029
• Midpoint being $106,849, dependent on skills and experience

Ko tōu ake mahi - What you'll do
As Senior Advisor, Cancer Control (NCDs), you'll provide expert advice and leadership to support implementation of the Cancer Control Programme Plan and the wider NCD pillar. Working through the Polynesian Health Corridors (PHC) programme, you'll partner with Polynesian countries, regional organisations, and stakeholders to strengthen cancer control systems, including access to high'quality, sustainable palliative care. You'll bring a collaborative, equity'focused approach and ensure all work aligns with the Ministry's functions

• Provide technical leadership across cancer control initiatives, including palliative care, in partnership with Polynesian countries, stakeholders, and delivery partners.
• Lead and advise on delivery of the NCD pillar work programme, with a particular emphasis on planning and implementing palliative care'related activities.
• Manage commissioning activities for the NCD pillar, including procurement, contract management, and supplier relationships.
• Support effective monitoring, evaluation, and reporting to strengthen cancer control and palliative care outcomes under the PHC programme.
• Work collaboratively across teams and organisations to plan, deliver, and continuously improve activities, embedding equity, partnership, and shared accountability throughout.

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you'll bring

• Strong experience in public health, health systems, or development, supported by relevant qualifications (e.g. public health, nursing, population/global health, health sciences).
• Practical experience across cancer control programmes, including prevention, early detection, treatment, and palliative care, ideally in New Zealand and/or Pacific settings.
• Senior'level experience leading end'to'end health system or programme delivery, from design through to implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Experience in Pacific public health, with a demonstrated ability to co-design and deliver culturally appropriate activities that improve health outcomes.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder'management skills, with sound judgement, political awareness, and the ability to deliver high'quality advice.

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 Tuesday 19 May 2026.

Click here 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.

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.