Professional Leader in Speech Language Therapy at Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora Waikato, Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Based across Waikato District
• Fixed term parental cover 0.5FTE opportunity to increase to include clinical FTE
• Leadership opportunity Influence professional practice while supporting the team to thrive

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Speech Language Therapist to provide professional leadership for the Speech and Language Therapy Profession here at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, Waikato.

This leadership position is responsible for Speech Language Therapy workforce development and liaison with the Allied Health Manager to ensure high quality patient care and equity focused outcome. The successful applicant will be responsible for facilitating consistent standards of practice amongst Speech and Language Therapists, ensuring effective use of evidence based, safe and competent practice. Supporting managers on issues related to the Speech and Language Therapy profession, driving innovation in care delivery whilst also articulating the value of the Speech and Language Therapy Profession.

Click here to view the position description.

About the Team

You will join a team of forward thinking, innovative Allied, Scientific & Technical Professional Leads who are committed to improving health outcomes and equity across the Waikato District working in close partnership with operational leads.

You will also work closely with your regional and national professional lead colleagues, as well as range of clinicians both internal and external, so will need to have the ability to maintain excellent working relationships with these groups of people.

About Hamilton

Hamilton, where Waikato Hospital is situated, is a vibrant city nestled alongside the scenic Waikato River, offering a perfect mix of nature and culture. Explore the stunning Hamilton Gardens, home to themed gardens from Italy to Asia, or visit the Waikato Museum to delve into the region's rich history. The city also boasts the Hamilton Zoo, where you can walk through an aviary filled with native birds. Hamilton is a lively hub, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, along with events like rugby, cricket, and the famous National Agricultural Fieldays and Balloons over Waikato festival. With its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventures, Hamilton is an ideal place to live and work.

For more information on living and working in Waikato click here

About you

You are a NZ Registered Speech and Language Therapist with relevant experience who thrives both autonomously and in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. You will have a strong clinical background. Be self-motivated, a strategic thinker, an excellent communicator and team play with commitment to equity and improving health outcomes for our community.

• New Zealand Registered Speech Language Therapist.
• Minimum 5 years clinical experience.
• Experience in implementing Te Tirti o Waitangi in action.
• A proactive, collaborative approach to leadership and service improvement.
• Strong communication and influencing skills.
• Full current NZ driving licence.

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 online or apply via our Waikato Careers website by clicking here.

All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11:59 pm on 19 July 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Ekeraam Jones at Ekeraam.Jones@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz