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Posted 22 August, 2026

Principal/ Senior Policy Analyst Health Economics

New Zealand Government
Wellington, WGN, NZ Full Time
Reference: 6e862fce49efa6d7

Job Description

Wellington based | Full-time | Permanent Senior OR Principal level opportunity Use economic frameworks and analytical tools to solve real-world policy problems in the large, complex and important Health sector Midpoint of $156,054 for a Principal role / $116,415 for a Senior role, with the exact amount dependent on experience Ko tōu ake mahi - What you'll do We are seeking an experienced principal or senior policy analyst and economist to support the improvement of funding and market levers across New Zealand's health system. This role will lead and contribute to work programmes involving health funding, productivity, market and pricing issues and funding settings. This is your opportunity to lead and contribute to complex work, mentor others, and collaborate across the sector to deliver meaningful change that improves lives. If you thrive on tackling big challenges, undertaking complex analysis, and making a tangible difference, this role is for you. This role requires strong analytical capability, including the ability to interpret economic, financial and system level information to support policy advice, investment decisions and Ministerial priorities. Lead with insight: Apply health economics tools-like cost-benefit analysis and impact assessments-to shape smart, evidence-based policy decisions. Drive complex policy work: Lead and contribute to high-profile policy programmes, delivering clear, robust advice that stands up to scrutiny. Influence decision-makers: Translate complex economic and policy concepts into practical, compelling advice for Ministers and senior leaders. Build capability: Mentor and support colleagues, lifting policy capability and ensuring consistently high-quality outputs. Collaborate for impact: Work across teams and the wider sector to deliver joined-up solutions that prioritise equity and meet Treaty obligations. Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you'll bring As a Senior Policy Analyst you will bringStrong experience applying economic analysis within policy, regulatory, or funding settings. Proven ability to use economic frameworks and analytical tools to solve complex, real-world policy problems. Skilled at translating complex analysis into clear, actionable advice for senior leaders and non-technical audiences. Demonstrated leadership in mentoring, peer review, and guiding others on analytical and policy work. A relevant tertiary qualification. Qualifications in an economic field would be an advantage Strong experience applying economic analysis within policy, regulatory, or funding settings. Proven ability to use economic frameworks and analytical tools to solve complex, real-world policy problems. Skilled at translating complex analysis into clear, actionable advice for senior leaders and non-technical audiences. Demonstrated leadership in mentoring, peer review, and guiding others on analytical and policy work. A relevant tertiary qualification. Qualifications in an economic field would be an advantage As a Principal Policy Analyst you would also bringExcellent stakeholder engagement, communication, and critical thinking skills, with a solid understanding of government processes and policy development. Demonstrated people management skills including the coaching and mentoring of junior staff. Highly developed written and oral communication skills including the ability to communicate clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles Ability to quickly assimilate new information or areas of work and come to an understanding of unfamiliar and complex concepts and environments Experience in driving policy through influencing and leading a range of stakeholders Advanced relationship management skills with the ability to develop productive stakeholder relationships through consultation and partnerships A post graduate qualification in relevant field would be an advantage Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication, and critical thinking skills, with a solid understanding of government processes and policy development. Demonstrated people management skills including the coaching and mentoring of junior staff. Highly developed written and oral communication skills including the ability to communicate clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles Ability to quickly assimilate new information or areas of work and come to an understanding of unfamiliar and complex concepts and environments Experience in driving policy through influencing and leading a range of stakeholders Advanced relationship management skills with the ability to develop productive stakeholder relationships through consultation and partnerships A post graduate qualification in relevant field would be an advantage 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 whanau 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. Applications close on Thursday 3 September. Please note that this is a Wellington based position. If you plan to relocate, please outline your plans in your cover letter. To be eligible for this role you must have full time ongoing working rights in NZ. If you have any questions, email the recruitment team at [email protected]. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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