Senior Policy Analyst

• Wellington based | Permanent & Fixed Term | Full-time

• 4.4 weeks annual leave | Wellness allowance after 12 months

• 3 positions across three teams in the Strategy and Policy Group – System Strategy and Performance, Investment and Budget Policy, and Health Services and Treatments Policy

• $110,532- $122,812 dependent on experience

Join one of three highly motivated and supportive teams, engage in important and interesting work and make an impact at a strategic and system-wide level. As a Senior Policy Analyst in the Strategy and Policy Group, you’ll lead high-value policy work that shapes the future of health in Aotearoa. You’ll use your skills and policy expertise to turn evidence and analysis into influential advice, inform decision-making, and mentor others to build capability across the Ministry—all while championing equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments.

Health Services and Treatments Policy

The team provides advice on strategic direction and access to services and treatments in the health system, including medicines and medical technologies. This role provides an opportunity to look across the health system and see where systems can be improved to enhance health outcomes.

Strategy & System Performance

Our role is to advise on strategic priorities for the health system and address current and future challenges. You will contribute to strengthening the accountability and sustainability of Aotearoa’s health system and help influence its future direction.

Investment & Budget Strategy

The team’s focus is to lead advice on health system investment priorities. This will be an opportunity to help influence investment decisions through the annual Budget process and examine some of the more fundamental funding settings that drive expenditure in health.

What you’ll do

• Lead policy work – Develop end-to-end policy advice, from problem definition through analysis and evaluation of options to presentation of high-quality advice to Ministers and senior leaders

• Provide strategic advice – Deliver high-quality, evidence-based advice informed by cost-benefit analysis, stakeholder engagement, and an understanding of regulatory and operational settings

• Lift quality and capability – Review work, mentor others, and strengthen policy practice across the team

• Lead delivery and priorities – Plan and oversee projects, ensuring work is well-coordinated and aligned to strategic outcomes

• Advise of investment priorities – Develop advice to the Minister of Health on investment priorities and funding sustainability

• Advise on the Health Budget – Support the development of the Vote Health Budget package and assess value for money and investment readiness

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring

• Policy expertise – Strong understanding of public policy, government processes, and experience developing high-quality advice

• Strategic thinking – Ability to analyse complex issues, apply sound judgement, and translate insights into clear options

• Leadership and influence – Experience leading work programmes and influencing stakeholders across diverse settings

• Communication & relationships – Advanced written, verbal, and interpersonal skills to engage, mentor, and partner effectively

• Public finance understanding – Strong experience in NZ public finance systems/budget process; in policy, government processes; and political structures

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 whānau 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.

Me pēhea te tono mai - How to apply 

Applications close on midnight 14 September 2026. 

Click here to view the position description for Investment & Budget Strategy

Click here to view the position description for System, Strategy and Performance

Click here to view the position description, Health Services and Treatments Policy

Please follow the online process at our Careers Website to apply. Please ensure you upload a CV and covering letter with all applications. If you have any questions, email the recruitment team at [email protected].