Project Director

Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora – Christchurch, South Island
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
As Project Director, you'll lead major health infrastructure projects from concept through to delivery, implementation, and operational handover across the Christchurch region.
Working within the Infrastructure and Investment Group (IIG), you will oversee projects to ensure they are delivered on time, within scope, and to the highest standards of safety and quality.
You'll provide strategic leadership to project teams, manage complex risks, and foster collaboration across internal and external stakeholders.
This role is pivotal in shaping the future of health facilities across Aotearoa, supporting the Pae Ora vision for a transformed health system.
About the Team/Service/Location
The IIG team are focused on delivering high impact infrastructure investments that support the transformation of New Zealand's health system.
Giving support, oversight and assurance across projects and programmes, the team understand that safe, fit for purpose health facilities, sites and equipment are essential for a well-functioning health system that improves the health of all New Zealanders.
About you
You have a proven track record of delivering large-scale infrastructure projects and you bring strategic vision and operational excellence to every stage of delivery.
You're confident navigating ambiguity and balancing competing priorities, while maintaining a focus on outcomes that improve health equity and access for communities across Aotearoa.
You're politically astute and commercially savvy, able to anticipate challenges and influence at the highest levels.
You know how to build strong relationships across diverse stakeholders, from clinicians and contractors to government agencies and iwi partners.
Above all, you're passionate about shaping the future of healthcare infrastructure.
You lead with integrity, empathy, and innovation, creating environments where teams feel valued, empowered, and inspired to deliver their best.
You will bring:
Significant experience as a Project Director leading infrastructure projects with capital costs up to $1b.
Strong knowledge of project management methodologies (PRINCE2, PMBOK or similar).
Proven ability to manage commercial performance, risk, and compliance.
Experience engaging senior stakeholders and navigating political environments.
Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022
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 11th January 2026.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact Shannon Elder at *************@Te Whatu Ora.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.
Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position.
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