Pacific Health Clinical Service Director - Te Waipounamu

Lead transformational Pacific health services and influence equitable outcomes for Pacific patients, aiga/kaiga/magafaoa/vuvale/famili/kopu tangata/whānau and communities across Te WaipounamuShape system-wide improvement and cultural excellence through strategic leadership, service development, workforce growth and Pacific cultural safety initiativesPermanent, full‑time position based in Christchurch supporting Te WaipounamuHealth New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country's largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 5 million New Zealanders. We provide essential hospital, specialist, and community health services across 80+ locations from large urban centres to rural towns and remote communities. Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders by delivering equitable, accessible, and innovative care. About the Role The Pacific Health Clinical Service Director provides strategic clinical and operational leadership for the multidisciplinary Pacific Health team, ensuring Pacific patients and their aiga/whānau receive culturally responsive, equitable and high-quality care across hospital services. As a senior leader within Health New Zealand, the role partners closely with clinical leaders, hospital services, primary care providers and Pacific communities to drive improved health outcomes, reduce disparities, and strengthen the delivery of patient and whānau-centred care. The position plays a critical role in translating Pacific health priorities into meaningful service improvements, workforce development initiatives and quality improvement programmes informed by the voices and experiences of Pacific people. Leading a team within a complex healthcare environment, the Director is responsible for operational performance, stakeholder engagement, cultural competency initiatives, and the development of integrated models of care that reflect Pacific values and ways of working. The role provides strategic oversight of service delivery, supports the achievement of organisational health targets, and fosters strong partnerships across HealthNZ, community organisations and Pacific providers. Combining clinical credibility with influential leadership, the Director champions innovation, workforce capability and continuous improvement to ensure services are accessible, effective and culturally safe for Pacific communities. About the Service This role sits within the Pacific Health Clinical Group in the Office of the Clinical Chief Officers within Health NZ. The team is dedicated to improving health outcomes for Pacific communities through strategic planning, effective funding allocation, workforce development and strong partnerships with providers and stakeholders. As part of this collaborative and impact-driven team, you will contribute to initiatives that support equitable access to healthcare and culturally responsive services. About you You are an experienced and values-driven health leader with a strong commitment to improving health outcomes for Pacific peoples and communities. You bring a combination of clinical credibility, operational leadership and cultural competence, enabling you to lead multidisciplinary teams, influence system-wide improvement initiatives, and build trusted relationships across hospital services, community providers and Pacific stakeholders. Passionate about equity, you are skilled at navigating complex healthcare environments while championing culturally responsive, patient and whānau-centred models of care. A relevant health professional qualification with current NewZealand registration and practising certificate Significant leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams, services and resources within a healthcare setting A deep understanding of Pacific cultures, values and communities, with the ability to engage authentically with Pacific patients, families and stakeholders Proven experience leading service improvement, quality initiatives and workforce development programmes Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills, with the ability to collaborate across clinical, operational and community environments Experience delivering education, coaching, mentoring and professional development to individuals and teams Sound knowledge of the NewZealand health sector, health equity priorities, and the challenges and opportunities impacting Pacific health outcomes A demonstrated commitment to TeTiriti o Waitangi, culturally safe practice, innovation, and continuous improvement Excellent communication, influencing and change leadership capabilities, with the ability to inspire others and drive meaningful outcomes The resilience, integrity and strategic thinking required to lead in a complex and evolving health environment. Working for 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 service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr