Wellington based | Permanent & Fixed Term | Full-time
4.4 weeks annual leave | Wellness allowance after 12 months
3 positions across three teams in the Strategy and Policy Group – System Strategy and Performance, Investment and Budget Policy, and Health Services and Treatments Policy
$110,532- $122,812 dependent on experience
Join one of three highly motivated and supportive teams, engage in important and interesting work and make an impact at a strategic and system-wide level. As a Senior Policy Analyst in the Strategy and Policy Group, you’ll lead high-value policy work that shapes the future of health in Aotearoa. You’ll use your skills and policy expertise to turn evidence and analysis into influential advice, inform decision-making, and mentor others to build capability across the Ministry—all while championing equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments.
Health Services and Treatments Policy (Senior Policy Analyst, permanent)
The team provides advice on strategic direction and access to services and treatments in the health system, including medicines and medical technologies. This role provides an opportunity to look across the health system and see where systems can be improved to enhance health outcomes.
Strategy & System Performance (Senior Policy Analyst, permanent)
Our role is to advise on strategic priorities for the health system and address current and future challenges. You will contribute to strengthening the accountability and sustainability of Aotearoa’s health system and help influence its future direction.
Investment & Budget Strategy (Senior Policy Analsyt, fixed term - 30 June 27)
The team’s focus is to lead advice on health system investment priorities. This will be an opportunity to help influence investment decisions through the annual Budget process and examine some of the more fundamental funding settings that drive expenditure in health.
What you’ll do
Lead 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
Advise of investment priorities – Develop advice to the Minister of Health on investment priorities and funding sustainability
Advise on the Health Budget – Support the development of the Vote Health Budget package and assess value for money and investment readiness
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
Public finance understanding – Strong experience in NZ public finance systems/budget process; in policy, government processes; and political structures
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.
Me pēhea te tono mai - How to apply
Applications close on midnight 14 September 2026.
Click here to view the position description for Investment & Budget Strategy
Click here to view the position description for System, Strategy and Performance
Click here to view the position description, Health Services and Treatments Policy
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 [email protected].
Skills Required
- Strong understanding of public policy and government processes
- Experience developing high-quality policy advice
- Ability to analyse complex issues and translate insights into clear options
- Experience leading work programmes and influencing diverse stakeholders
- Advanced written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- Experience mentoring and partnering effectively
- Strong experience with New Zealand public finance systems and the government budget process
- Understanding of political structures
What We Do
New Zealand’s Ministry of Health (Manatū Hauora) is the government’s lead advisor on health priorities and policy and steward of the national health system. It sets system direction, advises the Government on health policy, and regulates and monitors the health system. Its mission is to help ensure New Zealanders can access healthcare and achieve longer, healthier lives with improved quality of life.
