Senior Policy Analyst

Ministry of Health New Zealand; Wellington; On-site; NZD 111,000 - 123,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

4.4 weeks annual leave

Wellness allowance after 12 months

Job summary

Ministry of Health New Zealand is seeking a Policy professional based in Wellington to shape health policy and legislation across Aotearoa. You will lead end-to-end policy work, provide strategic, evidence-based advice, and influence ministers and senior leaders through rigorous analysis and stakeholder engagement.

You will mentor colleagues, drive priorities, and collaborate across teams to deliver equitable health outcomes while operating within regulatory and operating settings.

Qualifications

• Policy expertise in public policy and government processes.
• Strategic thinking to translate insights into options.
• Leadership experience guiding work programmes and stakeholders.
• Advanced written, verbal, and interpersonal communication.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end policy advice from problem definition through analysis.
• Provide strategic, evidence-based advice with cost-benefit insights.
• Mentor colleagues and strengthen policy practice within the team.
• Plan, oversee projects, and ensure alignment with strategic outcomes.
• Build stakeholder relationships to support system-wide equity goals.

Skills

Policy expertise

Strategic thinking

Leadership and influence

Communication & relationships

Job description

Join Strategy and Policy | Te Pou Rautaki and help shape the future of health in Aotearoa. Working at the heart of government decision-making, you'll provide high-quality policy advice, contribute to legislation and regulation, and tackle complex issues that improve health outcomes for New Zealanders. This is an opportunity to influence meaningful change while working alongside experienced policy professionals across the health sector.

What You’ll Do

• Lead critical policy work- Develop end-to-end policy advice, from problem definition through analysis and evaluation of options to presentation of high-quality advice to Ministers and senior leaders
• Provide strategic advice- Deliver high-quality, evidence-based advice informed by cost-benefit analysis, stakeholder engagement, and an understanding of regulatory and operational settings
• Lift quality and capability- Review work, mentor others, and strengthen policy practice across the team
• Lead delivery and priorities- Plan and oversee projects, ensuring work is well-coordinated and aligned to strategic outcomes
• Collaborate and influence- Build strong stakeholder relationships and support system-wide outcomes grounded in equity and Te Tiriti

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring

• Policy expertise- Strong understanding of public policy, government processes, and experience developing high-quality advice
• Strategic thinking- Ability to analyse complex issues, apply sound judgement, and translate insights into clear options
• Leadership and influence- Experience leading work programmes and influencing stakeholders across diverse settings
• Communication & relationships- Advanced written, verbal, and interpersonal skills to engage, mentor, and partner effectively

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 whānau 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.

• Wellington based | Permanent | Full-time
• 4.4 weeks annual leave | Wellness allowance after 12 months
• Shape health policy and legislation that improves lives across Aotearoa.
• $110,532- $122,812 dependent on experience