National Internal Communications & Stakeholder Engagement Lead

• Permanent, full-time position based anywhere in New Zealand.
• Lead national internal communications and stakeholder engagement at scale.
• Be a trusted advisor to the Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team.
• Shape how Health New Zealand connects with its people and key stakeholders.

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

As the National Internal Communications & Stakeholder Engagement Lead, you will lead the development and delivery of national-level internal communication and stakeholder engagement strategies that align with organisational priorities and reflect the regionally devolved nature of Health New Zealand.

You will own internal leadership communications at a national level, providing trusted advice and support to the Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team. You will also advise senior leaders on navigating complex stakeholder environments and building strong, effective relationships across the health system and wider government sector.

Leading a high-performing team, you will ensure the delivery of cohesive, high-quality communication and engagement approaches. You will drive consistency, reduce duplication and build capability across the organisation, while fostering innovation and continuous improvement.

This role also supports the Chief Advisor Communications and acts as a key deputy, contributing to the strategic and operational leadership of the function.

This is a unique opportunity to lead and influence how one of New Zealand's largest and most complex organisations communicates and engages at a national level. You'll work at the centre of system transformation, partnering with senior leaders and shaping strategies that connect people, align priorities and support better health outcomes for all New Zealanders.

About you

You are an experienced and strategic communications leader who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments and is confident working at the most senior levels.

You will bring:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in communications, PR, journalism or a related field.
• Extensive experience (typically 7–10+ years) in communications, including leadership of communications and engagement teams.
• Proven experience developing and delivering communication and engagement strategies in large, complex organisations.
• Strong expertise in both internal communications and stakeholder engagement at a senior level.
• Exceptional relationship management skills, with the ability to influence and advise senior leaders.
• Experience managing risks, issues and reputational considerations.
• A collaborative leadership style, with experience building and developing high-performing teams.
• A strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to improving equity outcomes.

Experience in the public sector and/or health environment will be highly regarded.

Working at 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 11:59PM Sunday 12 April 2026. For further information, please contact Nicole Rickard on Nicole.Rickard@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz.

The full position description is available on the Health New Zealand Careers site.

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected kaimahi will be given preference and priority for this position.

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert.