Regional Integrated Operations Lead

About the Company Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders, grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. We strive to provide high-quality, equitable, and whanau-centered care, working to enhance access for patients while ensuring optimal resource utilization for excellent patient care. About the Role We are seeking a Regional Integrated Operations Lead (RIOL) to join our team in Te Manawa Taki. This permanent, full-time position plays a crucial role in fostering a connected, efficient, and equitable health system across the region. The RIOL will lead efforts to improve patient flow by integrating governance, planning, response, and review processes. Reporting to the Regional Programme Manager for HSS Priorities, the RIOL will ensure that operational decisions align at national, regional, and district levels. This alignment is essential for delivering improved health outcomes and providing a seamless patient experience. In this role, you will collaborate closely with District IOC Directors/Managers, Group Directors of Operations, Clinical and Operational Leads, and primary care partners to implement national strategies, particularly those aimed at achieving the Shorter Stays in Emergency Departments (SSED) health target. You will also engage with Hospital Performance teams, Planning Funding and Outcomes, and the National Acute Care team to ensure regional initiatives are consistent with national service delivery models. A key focus will be the standardization and integration of care delivery across the region, enhancing the consistency, equity, and quality of care. You will also establish systems for real-time visibility and situational awareness to support proactive, informed decision-making. Success in this role requires a strategic, collaborative leader with a clinical background who can effectively build relationships across the health system. Strong relationship management with a wide range of stakeholders is essential, as is strategic alignment with national healthcare priorities to ensure consistent, high-standard care delivery across the region. About the Team As a member of our team, you will work alongside other Regional Programme Managers in the Te Manawa Taki regional office. You will receive collegial support and report to the Regional Programme Director for Hospital and Specialist Services Priorities. Our team is spread across the region, and we will establish regular touchpoints to ensure collaboration and communication. About You We are looking for a seasoned healthcare leader with over ten years of experience in hospital operations management within complex environments. You should possess relevant graduate and postgraduate qualifications, including clinical credentials, and have a strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application in healthcare. Your strategic mindset should be complemented by the ability to translate vision into actionable plans that evolve to meet population health needs. You should have a collaborative and performance-driven leadership style, with a proven ability to engage teams, manage change, and deliver results. Additionally, you should bring expertise in operational and capacity planning, service development, and quality improvement, backed by strong business acumen and analytical skills. Experience with CIMS Level 4, program and project management methodologies, and a background in confidential environments will further enhance your capabilities. A systems-thinking approach is essential for integrating strategy, operations, and stakeholder engagement effectively. Working at Health New Zealand At Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, we are dedicated to providing excellent healthcare to the people of New Zealand. We value a diverse and inclusive workforce, as it positions us better to understand and serve our community. We encourage applications from individuals in our diverse Maori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. How to Apply To apply, please click 'Apply online' or visit our Waikato Careers website. All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11:59 PM on 13 July 2025. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Rachael Devey at Rachael.Devey@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz. We will review applications as they are received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advertisement.