Senior Policy Analyst Public Health Policy and Strategy

Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora; Wellington; On-site; NZD 111,000 - 147,000; Full time

Job summary

Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora in Wellington invites a Senior Policy Analyst to lead and influence high-impact public health policy work, including legislative reform and regulatory matters. You will shape policy options, brief the Minister, and deliver under tight timelines with a focus on accuracy and impact.

In this role you will mentor colleagues, apply the full policy process from problem definition through evaluation, and collaborate across agencies to deliver sound advice that

Qualifications

• Public policy knowledge and government process understanding.
• Excellent written/verbal communication; adapt to audiences.
• Strong analytical skills to synthesize complex information.
• Experience influencing diverse stakeholders across partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver high-quality policy advice, papers, legislation, and briefs.
• Apply the full policy process—from problem definition and option analysis through to implementation and evaluation.
• Provide leadership on projects and contribute to planning and delivery.
• Review and strengthen work through peer review, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Mentor and support colleagues, helping build policy capability and ensuring statutory obligations are met.

Skills

Policy analysis

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Communication

Education

Relevant qualification in public policy

Job description

• Showcase your policy and machinery of government skills
• Lead and influence complex & high-profile work
• Permanent | Wellington based position
• $110,531 to $147,375 dependent on experience

Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do

As a Senior Policy Analyst in the Public Health Policy and Strategy Unit you’ll lead and influence complex, high-impact work that directly supports the Ministry’s strategic priorities. The scope of our work is broad and covers:

• legislative and regulatory matters ranging from being commissioned to quickly amend regulations through to broader legislative reform (eg, Burial and Cremation Act reform and reviewing the Health Act in its entirety)
• providing advice to the Minister on important public health matters such as cancer screening, immunisation and safe drinking water

You’ll bring evidence to life through thoughtful analysis, collaborate across teams and agencies, and help lift policy capability by mentoring others. This is an opportunity to take ownership, build trusted relationships, and deliver advice that makes a real difference. We’re looking for people who can:

• Lead and deliver high-quality policy advice, including policy papers, legislation, guidelines, and briefings
• Apply the full policy process—from problem definition and option analysis (including regulatory impact assessment) through to implementation and evaluation
• Provide leadership on projects and contribute to planning and delivery using strategic and tactical approaches
• Review and strengthen the work of others through peer review, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and quality
• Mentor and support colleagues, helping build policy capability while contributing to statutory obligations, monitoring, reporting, and continuous improvement

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring

• A relevant qualification, with a solid understanding of how public policy and government processes work
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and adapt your style to different audiences
• Strong analytical capability, including critical thinking and the ability to synthesise complex information into clear, actionable advice
• Proven experience building and managing stakeholder relationships, with the ability to influence, collaborate, and lead across a range of partners

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 on Monday 5 Oct 2026.

You must be based in Wellington and have full time permanent working rights in NZ to be considered for this position.