Senior Advisor Health Security

Ministry Of Health - Manatū Hauora; Wellington; On-site; NZD 98,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora in Wellington is seeking a public health professional to lead and influence immunisation initiatives under the Polynesian Health Corridors (PHC) programme, strengthening health security across the Pacific.

You will work with governments, health agencies, and Pasifika communities to deliver vaccine-preventable disease programmes, build capability, and drive continuous improvement in planning, tools, and partnerships.

Qualifications

• Strong nursing, immunisation, or public health experience with relevant qualifications.
• Experience leading public health programmes from design to delivery.
• Knowledge of Polynesian health priorities and Pasifika communities in NZ.
• Experience providing high-quality advice and working with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong communication and relationship-management skills; ability to think strategically.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Nurse Vaccinator Pathway rollout and strengthen immunisation capability.
• Provide expert health security advice and design initiatives on vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Oversee programme activities including procurement, contracts, monitoring, reporting, evaluation.
• Build relationships with country partners, government agencies, health sector stakeholders, Pacific communities.
• Drive continuous improvement across planning, processes, tools, and frameworks for Health Security.

Skills

Nursing experience

Immunisation/Public health

Programme leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic thinking

Education

Nursing degree or public health qualification

Job description

• Wellington based | Full-time
• Fixed term until 30 June 2029
• Improve preparedness and response to vaccine-preventable diseases
• Midpoint of $108,452 dependent on experience

Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do

Are you passionate about strengthening health security outcomes across the Pacific? Join a team delivering meaningful work that supports the health and wellbeing of Polynesian countries through the Polynesian Health Corridors (PHC) programme. This is an exciting opportunity to lead and influence initiatives that improve preparedness and response to vaccine-preventable diseases, build health system capability, and strengthen regional partnerships. You’ll work closely with governments, health agencies, and stakeholders across New Zealand and the Pacific, providing expert advice and helping to deliver programmes that make a real difference.

• Lead the Nurse Vaccinator Pathway rollout and support partner countries to strengthen immunisation capability and workforce development.
• Provide expert health security advice and lead the design and delivery of initiatives focused on vaccine-preventable diseases across Polynesian countries.
• Manage and oversee programme activities, including stakeholder engagement, procurement, contract management, monitoring, reporting, and evaluation.
• Build strong relationships with country partners, government agencies, health sector stakeholders, and Pacific communities to support successful programme delivery.
• Drive continuous improvement by contributing to planning, processes, tools, and frameworks that support the effective delivery of the Health Security work programme.

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring

• Strong nursing, immunisation, or public health experience, supported by relevant qualifications.
• Experience leading public health programmes or initiatives from design through to delivery.
• Knowledge of Polynesian health priorities and the links between Pacific nations and Pasifika communities in New Zealand.
• Experience providing high-quality advice, applying sound judgement, and working effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Strong communication, relationship management, and organisational skills, with the ability to think strategically and deliver results in a complex environment.

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.

Applications close Midnight Monday 21 September 2026.

Please note: To be eligible for this position, you will be based in Wellington and have full time working rights for the duration of the contract term.