Principal Advisor

Wellington based | Full-time | Permanent
Wellness allowance after 12 months
Midpoint of $145,198. Actual salary dependent on experience
What you’ll do - Ko tōu ake mahi
This is a unique opportunity to influence international health policy, strengthen relationships with global partners, and provide strategic leadership on complex issues that impact health outcomes both domestically and internationally. Working across government, with international organisations including the World Health Organization, and alongside senior leaders, you'll play a key role in advancing the Ministry's Global Health Strategy
Help shape New Zealand's global health priorities by providing strategic advice and leading work that delivers meaningful outcomes at home and internationally.
Build and strengthen influential relationships with international partners, including the World Health Organization, foreign governments, and key stakeholders across the health sector.
Lead high-impact projects, negotiations, and global health initiatives that position New Zealand as a trusted voice on international health issues.
Drive excellence across the team through thought leadership, mentoring, and collaboration, helping to lift capability and deliver quality outcomes.
What you’ll bring - Ko ngā pūkenga ōu
Significant experience providing strategic policy advice and leading complex work programmes.
Proven experience operating at a principal level in international, multilateral, or foreign policy environments
Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence across government, health, and international partners.
Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, with sound judgement in complex environments.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including experience briefing senior leaders and ministers.
Knowledge of government decision-making, the political interface, and a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations.
About the Ministry
As the Government's lead advisor on health, we help shape the future of New Zealand's health system through policy, regulation and monitoring. Join a team that makes a real difference to the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders while working in a supportive, inclusive environment that values wellbeing, growth and development.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to an accessible and respectful recruitment process.
How to apply - Me pēhea te tono mai
Applications close Midnight Thursday 22nd October 2026.
Click here to view the position description. 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 recruitment@health.govt.nz.
We will be doing interviews for shortlisted applicants on the 29th – 30th October 2026.