Senior Policy Analyst

New Zealand Government Joba; 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

Manatu Hauora in Wellington is recruiting for a permanent, full-time Strategy and Policy professional to shape health policy and legislation across Aotearoa.

You will lead end-to-end policy work, provide strategic, evidence-based advice, and mentor colleagues while aligning priorities with equity and Te Tiriti. You’ll collaborate with Ministers, senior leaders and health sector partners to deliver meaningful health improvements.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• 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

Skills

Policy expertise

Strategic thinking

Leadership and influence

Communication & relationships

Job description

Wellington based | Permanent | Full-time4.4 weeks annual leave | Wellness allowance after 12 monthsShape health policy and legislation that improves lives across Aotearoa.$110,532- $122,812 dependent on experienceJoin 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 doLead 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 leadersProvide strategic advice- Deliver high-quality, evidence-based advice informed by cost-benefit analysis, stakeholder engagement, and an understanding of regulatory and operational settingsLift quality and capability- Review work, mentor others, and strengthen policy practice across the teamLead delivery and priorities- Plan and oversee projects, ensuring work is well-coordinated and aligned to strategic outcomesCollaborate and influence- Build strong stakeholder relationships and support system-wide outcomes grounded in equity and Te TiritiKo nga pukenga ou - What you'll bringPolicy expertise- Strong understanding of public policy, government processes, and experience developing high-quality adviceStrategic thinking- Ability to analyse complex issues, apply sound judgement, and translate insights into clear optionsLeadership and influence- Experience leading work programmes and influencing stakeholders across diverse settingsCommunication & relationships- Advanced written, verbal, and interpersonal skills to engage, mentor, and partner effectivelyNga hua o to matou whare - What we bringDiscover 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 Manatu 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.Me pehea te tono mai - How to applyApplications close on midnight 5 October 2026.Click here: to view the position description. Please follow the online process at our Careers Website to apply. Please ensure you upload a CV and covering letter with all applications. If you have any questions, email the recruitment team at [e-mail].