At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage occupational health operations, ensuring compliance and strategic direction.
- Company: Health New Zealand, the largest employer delivering universal healthcare.
- Benefits: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic environment focused on improving health outcomes for all New Zealanders.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthcare delivery while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in occupational health with strong leadership and compliance skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About this role
Permanent, full time
Based in the Te Waipounamu Region
Health 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
This exciting new role reports to the Group Manager Occupational Health Service and holds responsibility for managing occupational health operations at a regional level ensuring compliance with Health NZ expectations and relevant legislation, regulations and industry standards, and contributing to the national strategic direction of the service. This is an ideal opportunity for a pro-active and action orientated leader.
This role provides leadership to the Occupational Health Service Delivery regional teams. The primary purpose of the role is to:
- Lead the implementation of Occupational Health strategic and operational initiatives within the designated region, ensuring consistent delivery across the region
- Build and maintain relationships with leaders across the region to ensure the Occupational Health program of work and function is understood and prioritised
- Ensure emphasis on identification of critical risks and management of controls
- Lead, mentor and supervise the regional team, fostering a positive and supportive work environment
About you
You’re an experienced Occupational Health professional with more than seven years of experience leading and influencing teams in healthcare or a similar industry. You have a strong grasp of local implementation and compliance management, particularly with the ACC AEP programme and ISO45001, and are confident working alongside senior leadership teams. You thrive in complex, evolving environments where ambiguity is part of the challenge, using your analytical and problem-solving skills to identify priorities and deliver practical solutions. You’re known for your ability to build and maintain strong relationships across a wide range of stakeholders and settings. Adaptable and composed under pressure, you communicate clearly and effectively, ensuring that decisions are well-informed and aligned with organisational goals.
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.
How to Apply
To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers' portal by Sunday, 11 January 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact careers@tewhatuora.govt.nz.
Due to the December holiday period, this advert will remain open for an extended duration. Screening and interviews will commence from mid-January. We appreciate your patience and look forward to connecting with you in the new year.
Regional Occupational Health Manager, Te Waipounamu in Canterbury employer: New Zealand Government
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is an exceptional employer, committed to delivering equitable and innovative healthcare across the Te Waipounamu region. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, we foster a supportive work culture that empowers our employees to grow and thrive in their careers. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the health outcomes of New Zealanders while enjoying professional development opportunities and a collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Regional Occupational Health Manager, Te Waipounamu in Canterbury
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like New Zealand Government.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at New Zealand Government.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like New Zealand Government, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Regional Occupational Health Manager, Te Waipounamu in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at New Zealand Government.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at New Zealand Government.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to New Zealand Government. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at New Zealand Government. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Zealand Government
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research New Zealand Government’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
