Senior Advisor Regulation

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

Benefits offered by this job

4.4 weeks annual leave

Wellness allowance after 12 months

Job summary

Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora in Wellington seeks a Senior Advisor for the Medsafe Compliance Branch. You will investigate regulatory complaints and product quality issues, delivering timely, evidence-based regulatory advice to diverse stakeholders and shaping decisions that affect public health.

You’ll lead high-impact work such as OIAs and Ministerials, drive continuous improvement, and mentor colleagues, contributing to a trusted health system and resilient regulatory services.

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in pharmacy or a science discipline, with a strong grounding in medicines.
• Sharp analytical thinking and sound judgement—able to cut through complexity and provide clear, practical advice.
• Strong communicator who can translate complex information for a wide range of audiences.
• Highly organised and relationship-focused, with a track record of building trust in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex investigations into regulatory complaints and product quality issues—making decisive calls that protect public safety.
• Deliver sharp, trusted advice on therapeutic products and compliance to a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Own high-impact work like OIAs, Ministerials and briefing notes, ensuring quality, accuracy and timeliness.
• Drive performance and continuous improvement across key programmes, systems and processes.
• Lead, mentor and collaborate—lifting capability while building strong relationships across the Ministry and wider health sector.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Clear communication

Organisational skills

Regulatory knowledge (Medsafe)

Stress management

Education

Pharmacy or science degree

Job description

• Wellington based | Full-time | Permanent

• 4.4 Weeks Annual Leave | Wellness allowance after 12 months

• Midpoint of $108,452 dependent on experience

Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do

Step into a role where your work directly protects the health of New Zealanders. As a Senior Advisor in the Medsafe Compliance Branch, you’ll operate in a fast-paced, high-impact regulatory environment- responding to complex, real-world issues with therapeutic products and shaping decisions that matter.

This is a role for someone sharp, adaptable, and unafraid of pace and pressure. You’ll be tackling new challenges every day, investigating issues, navigating constantly shifting priorities, and applying practical, evidence-based judgement to get the right outcome.

You’ll work alongside experts across Regulatory Services | Te Pou Tāhū, influencing national practice, building capability, and delivering work that strengthens trust in the health system.

If you’re a fast thinker who thrives on variety, brings a curious, solutions-focused mindset, and want to see the real-world impact of your work—this role offers challenge, growth, and a genuine sense of achievement.

• Lead complex investigations into regulatory complaints and product quality issues—making decisive calls that protect public safety

• Deliver sharp, trusted advice on therapeutic products and compliance to a wide range of internal and external stakeholders

• Own high-impact work like OIAs, Ministerials and briefings, ensuring quality, accuracy and timeliness

• Drive performance and continuous improvement across key programmes, systems and processes

• Lead, mentor and collaborate- lifting capability while building strong relationships across the Ministry and wider health sector

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring

• Relevant qualification in pharmacy or a science discipline, with a strong grounding in medicines

• Solid understanding of therapeutic product regulation and quality systems (or a keen interest to build this expertise)

• Sharp analytical thinking and sound judgement—able to cut through complexity and provide clear, practical advice

• Strong communicator who can translate complex information for a wide range of audiences

• Highly organised and relationship-focused, with a track record of building trust and delivering high-quality work in a fast-paced environment

• The ability to handle stressful situations and prioritise work based on risk

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.