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Posted 01 August, 2026

Medical Lead Mental Health Addiction Services

CGR Services
Whanganui, MWT, NZ Full Time
Reference: 03b3ceb037ca54b1

Job Description

Medical Lead, Psychiatry Palmerston North Hospital, Permanent Fulltime (0.5 management / 0.5 clinical) Benefits An encouraging learning environment where you will continue to grow and be challenged A professional and supportive culture and team setting Fulfilling and challenging work with great lifestyle options Tailored wellness programmes 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 currently have an opportunity for a Clinical Psychiatrist to join our Mental Health and Addictions Service. We have 1 permanent, full time position (0.5 fte Management/0.5 fte Clinical) role available. About you A Senior Medical Officer qualified to work in Mental Health and Addiction Services with at least 4 years' experience as a SMO. Demonstrate evidence of continuing professional development through, for example, professional guidance from an appropriate professional lead, attendance at relevant courses/ seminars/conferences; reading relevant literature; and maintenance of professional standards. Demonstrate experience in having worked in a leadership role and part of a wider leadership team. Demonstrate evidence in leading and managing change (process enhancements) Demonstrate awareness of equity issues across the sector including, but not limited to Māori Health Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the various Mental Health and Addiction Services provided within Mid Central Health and an ability to evidence skills and experience to lead services to address service challenges Possess advanced verbal and written communication skills Experience of financial and budgetary implications in decision making Possess experience in leading medical and health care teams Sound understanding of relevant legislation Experience in leading culture change amongst medical staff and the wider multidisciplinary team within a clinical environment. About the Team/Service MidCentral Mental Health and Addiction Services are committed to the ongoing development of a strong clinical-management partnership across its services. This is reflected in the dual leadership roles of Clinical Director and Group Manager Mental Health and Addiction Services. The Clinical Director and Group Manager are jointly responsible and accountable for effective leadership of MHAS operations. The Medical Lead of Psychiatry works in partnership with Operations Leads as well as being jointly responsible and accountable for MHAS operations. Alongside these roles are the Director of Nursing MHAS and Director of Allied Health MHAS. Te Pae Hauora o Ruahine o Tararua - MidCentral is a 350-bed hospital in the city of Palmerston North, Manawatū, a city in the Lower North Island of New Zealand. Palmerston North Hospital is a secondary hospital and offers most medical and surgical specialties with the exception of Cardiothoracic, Plastic and Neurosurgery. The hospital serves a local population of 180,000 but is the base for a regional head and neck oncology service which has responsibility for a population of 550,000 and draws patients from Whanganui, Taranaki, and Hawke's Bay. Employing over 2500 people, MidCentral offers a supportive work environment that accepts and values all employees. We actively seek Māori kaimahi into our workforce and provide an environment which delivers our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. About the Location Manawatū offers the perfect blend of city convenience and rural charm. Whether you're drawn to peaceful village life, vibrant townships, or the buzz of the city, you'll find your ideal lifestyle here. It's a family-friendly region that's easy to live in and even easier to love. The region is also home to excellent schools and two tertiary institutions: Massey University and the International Pacific College. Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice—beaches, ski fields, lakes, and mountains are all within reach, along with fantastic hiking and mountain biking tracks. No traffic, an easy commute to work and a strong community feel, help achieve true work-life balance. Our central location makes it easy to explore the rest of New Zealand, whether you're heading off on a road trip or catching a short flight. For more information on living and working in the Manawatū: Manawatū & Palmerston North - Visit | Live | Study | Business Working at Health New Zealand 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. Please note the PD attached to this advertisement is a draft and will be confirmed with the successful candidate in conjunction with the Clinical Director #J-18808-Ljbffr

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