Service Manager | Ophthalmology

Lead one of New Zealand's largest and most respected ophthalmology services. Influences service delivery, innovation and continuous improvement while working alongside highly skilled clinical leaders. Join a collaborative leadership team committed to delivering equitable, patient-centred care for the people of Waitaha Canterbury. Health New Zealand | 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 New Zealanders. About the Role We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated Service Manager to join the Canterbury Eye Service at Christchurch Hospital on a permanent, full-time basis. Reporting to the General Manager, the Service Manager provides operational leadership across the Canterbury Eye Service, partnering closely with the Clinical Director, Nurse Manager and multidisciplinary teams to ensure the delivery of safe, efficient and high-quality ophthalmology services. This is a varied and rewarding leadership role where you will oversee the day-to-day operational management of outpatient clinics, theatres, procedural services and associated administrative functions. You will play a key role in ensuring the service meets performance expectations, delivers excellent patient experiences and supports the ongoing development of innovative models of care. You will lead service planning, workforce and financial management, quality improvement initiatives and operational projects while fostering a positive, collaborative culture across the service. The role also contributes to wider directorate objectives and works closely with regional and organisational stakeholders to support strategic priorities. About the Team / Service / Location The Canterbury Eye Service is one of New Zealand's leading tertiary ophthalmology services, providing comprehensive specialist eye care to patients across Canterbury, the West Coast and the wider South Island. Our multidisciplinary team includes ophthalmologists, nurses, orthoptists, optometrists, technicians, administrators and allied health professionals working together to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care. The service provides a broad range of specialist clinics, diagnostic services, acute ophthalmology care and surgical services, including cataract, glaucoma, retinal, corneal, oculoplastic and paediatric ophthalmology. The team is committed to innovation, education, research and continuous improvement, ensuring patients receive timely access to world-class eye care. Christchurch offers an exceptional lifestyle, combining a vibrant city with easy access to beaches, mountains, vineyards and outdoor recreation. It is an ideal place to build both your career and your lifestyle. About You You are an experienced healthcare leader who enjoys working in partnership with clinicians and multidisciplinary teams to achieve outstanding service outcomes. You are a collaborative and strategic thinker with strong operational expertise and a passion for continuous improvement. You will also have: A tertiary qualification in health, business management or a related discipline. Significant operational management experience within a complex healthcare environment. Demonstrated experience managing budgets, workforce planning and operational performance. Strong leadership skills with experience leading and developing high-performing teams. Excellent relationship-building skills with the ability to influence and work effectively with clinical and non-clinical stakeholders. Experience leading service improvement initiatives, change management and project delivery. Knowledge of quality improvement methodologies, risk management and patient safety frameworks. An understanding of hospital services and the operational demands of outpatient, procedural and surgical environments. An appreciation of the challenges and opportunities within ophthalmology services, including elective performance, access to care, patient flow, theatre utilisation and evolving models of care. A commitment to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and improving equitable health outcomes for Māori and all communities. Working at Health New Zealand Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and serve our communities. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled and rainbow communities. How to Apply To apply, please click "Apply Now." All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal. While Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position. Job details Job Reference: Job Reference: PC4417001 Location: South Island - Canterbury - Christchurch #J-18808-Ljbffr