Pre-Operative Nurse Leader: Elevate Surgical Care

New Zealand Government; Taranaki; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is seeking a Pre-Operative Nurse Manager to lead and develop the pre-operative services across the surgical pathway in Taranaki. The role ensures timely assessment, optimisation and preparation for surgery, with emphasis on equity and excellent patient outcomes.

The successful candidate will partner with surgeons, anaesthetists, and clinical teams to strengthen systems, improve access, and ensure safe care within budget and policy requirements.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership ability in a health setting.
• Excellent communication and active listening skills.
• Calm, balanced, mature leadership style.
• Professional approach with strong stress management.
• Strong focus on team philosophy and collaboration.
• Ability to think strategically and operationally.
• Solid understanding of professional ethics.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee delivery of high‑quality pre‑operative services.
• Ensure patients are appropriately assessed, informed, and prepared for surgery.
• Collaborate with surgeons, anaesthetists and multidisciplinary teams.
• Drive service development, equity and continuous improvement within budget.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Calm demeanor

Stress management

Team collaboration

Strategic thinking

Professional ethics

Education

Postgraduate education in Pre-operative care

Job description

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is seeking a Pre-Operative Nurse Manager to lead and develop the pre-operative services across the surgical pathway in Taranaki. The role ensures timely assessment, optimisation and preparation for surgery, with emphasis on equity and excellent patient outcomes.

The successful candidate will partner with surgeons, anaesthetists, and clinical teams to strengthen systems, improve access, and ensure safe care within budget and policy requirements.