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Posted 16 July, 2026

Service Lead - Awhinatia te Tangata

New Zealand Government
Auckland, AUK, NZ Full Time
Reference: bf3a9538bb7af1d9

Job Description

Lead a service that improves equitable access and outcomes for Māori, Pacific and Tāngata Whaikaha patients. Make a meaningful impact through leadership, service development and strong community partnerships. Role Overview Health NewZealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all NewZealanders. We are seeking an experienced and values-led Service Lead to provide operational and strategic leadership for the Āwhinatiate Tangata service within Te Pūriri o Te Ora (Cancer and Blood Directorate). This is a unique leadership opportunity responsible for the effective management of a multidisciplinary team that supports Māori, Pacific and Tāngata Whaikaha patients and whānau throughout their cancer care journey. Responsibilities Lead and manage the Āwhinatiate Tangata service and its workforce. Drive delivery of key service objectives, equity outcomes and Faster Cancer Treatment targets. Build and maintain strong relationships with iwi, community providers and external stakeholders. Support the implementation of enhanced access initiatives and future models of care. Provide leadership across service planning, quality improvement, workforce development and operational performance. Manage budgets, resources, reporting and service performance measures. Champion culturally responsive, whānau‑centred care and services. Qualifications Current legal right to live and work in NewZealand. Commitment to biculturalism and achieving equitable outcomes for Māori. Demonstrated experience implementing TeTiriti o Waitangi principles in practice. Strong understanding of tikanga Māori and culturally safe practice. Relevant tertiary qualification in health, operations, management, quality, or a related field. Minimum three years' leadership or management experience, or equivalent clinical leadership experience. Proven ability to lead teams, manage performance and deliver service outcomes. Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills. Experience managing KPIs, reporting and continuous quality improvement initiatives. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Desirable Experience working within cancer services, navigation services or Māori health. Established relationships with Māori, Pacific or community providers. Experience leading service transformation, change management or programme implementation. Proficiency in tereo Māori and confidence working within teaoMāori settings. About the Team/Service Āwhinatiate Tangata is a multidisciplinary team of indigenous practitioners who provide an additional layer of support for Māori, Pacific and Tāngata Whaikaha patients receiving care through Te Pūriri o Te Ora. Working in partnership with iwi and community providers, the team helps patients and whānau navigate the healthcare system, access services, overcome barriers to care and achieve better health outcomes. About the location Auckland is NewZealand’s largest city and offers an outstanding lifestyle, combining world‑class healthcare, diverse communities, vibrant culture, and easy access to beaches, islands, and outdoor activities. EEO Statement We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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