Principal Advisor, Employment Relations

Employment Relations Assurance.
- Permanent, Wellington based role.
- Salary midpoint of $140,938, actual salary dependent on your experience.

Ko wai mātou - About us
At Manatū Hauora - Ministry of Health we are the kaitiaki of the health system, providing leadership and driving strategy and performance. We regulate the health sector and are the primary source of advice on health matters.
Te Pou Whakamaru | Regulation & Monitoring directorate is looking for a Principal Advisor Employment Relations to join our Workforce Monitoring Team. Our mahi ensures we develop and empower our health workforce across the whole of the health sector. Recognising them as the key enabler to achieving Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) - Protect, Promote, and Improve the Health of New Zealanders.
The Workforce Monitoring Team delivers on its ‘why' through employment relations assurance and workforce reporting to ensure the delivery and understanding of - workforce risks, technical leadership and evidence based high-quality strategic advice to the Minister, sector, Director-General, and other business units within the Ministry.
You will be part of a dynamic and supportive team where building trusting and productive relationships across the Ministry, health sector, government, and other external stakeholders is highly valued.
Ko ake mahi - What you'll do
You will lead the way in shaping the future of employment relations assurance across the health sector. You will provide strategic advice, technical leadership, and quality assurance to the Ministry, ensuring robust assurance frameworks that support critical workforce decisions. Your work will directly influence the Minister, sector leaders, and key stakeholders, driving impactful changes in health workforce management.
Ko pūkenga - What you'll bring
- Experienced employment relations practitioner who has expert understanding of the New Zealand legislative framework surrounding employment relations, collective bargaining and pay equity.
- Relevant tertiary qualifications and experience in the health and social sectors.
- Proven strategic and thought leadership in policy development.
- Excellent critical thinking, communication, and relationship management skills.
- Experience in central government and understanding of its operations.
- Proven ability to provide high-quality advice to Ministers and manage complex projects.
- Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations and improving health equity.

Ko mātou me tō matou whare - What we bring
Unlock your career potential at Manatū Hauora, where you'll 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, diversity and inclusion are woven into the fabric of our culture, 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.
Ngā Uaratanga - Our values
Our Values underpin how we work together and with the health and disability sector, public service colleagues and communities.
- Manaakitanga (Listen on Māori Dictonary.co.nz) - we show care, inclusion respect, support, trust, and kindness to each other
- Kaitiakitanga (Listen on Māori Dictionary.co.nz) - we preserve and maintain an environment that enables the Ministry and our people to thrive
- Whakapono (Listen on Māori Dictionary.co.nz) - we have trust and faith in each other to do the right thing

Me pēhea te tono mai - How to apply
We value diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and appreciate the richness of experience that your point of difference could bring to us. Please contact us if there is any support that we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is accessible to you.