Category Lead

"It's the commercial engine behind one of the most complex systems in the country – and every smart decision supports better health outcomes for Aotearoa. This is a role where you can make a genuine difference, somewhere different."

Health NZ Commercial Directorate

The newly established Commercial Directorate within the Procurement, Supply Chain & Health Technology Management (PSC&HTM) team at Health New Zealand is a national function with a vast and complex scope. They play a critical role in ensuring the availability, safety, and efficiency of clinical and non-clinical goods and services across the health system. Responsible for managing and influencing over $9 billion in annual spend, the team are central to delivering high-quality patient outcomes and standardising product usage across regions.

About the Role

As a Category Lead within our Commercial Directorate, you will be responsible for leading a team of Strategic Category Managers through the development and execution of category strategies that deliver exceptional commercial outcomes and support high-quality healthcare across Aotearoa. This is a senior leadership role that oversees significant spend portfolios.

You will provide strategic direction to category teams, guide sourcing and execution functions, and ensure that commercial activities are aligned with Health New Zealand's strategic goals. Your oversight will span market analysis, supplier relationship management, contract negotiation, and performance monitoring. You'll play a key role in mentoring and developing commercial capability across the organisation, contributing to a nationally integrated and locally responsive procurement model.

About you

You are a seasoned commercial leader with deep expertise in category management and a proven track record of delivering value in complex environments. You bring a strategic mindset, strong analytical skills, and the ability to lead high-performing teams through change and growth.

You love coaching for performance, excellence and growth and are always up for a challenge. You enjoy seeing the way through complex negotiations, problem solving, and helping teams come together for a shared purpose.

You will bring:

• A tertiary qualification in a relevant field (postgraduate preferred).
• 15+ years of experience in category management, with 5+ years in a leadership role.
• Expertise in strategic sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiation.
• Strong financial and market analysis capabilities.
• Experience working in public sector or health environments.
• In-depth understanding of regulatory frameworks and government procurement standards.
• Build strong relationships across internal and external stakeholders.

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. Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is dedicated to serving all New Zealanders. Through integration and collaboration, we're building a health system underpinned by partnership, equity, sustainability, whānau-centred care, and excellence.

How to Apply

To apply please click "apply now." All applications must be submitted through our online careers' portal by 17th December 2025. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Shannon Elder at

Please note: Te Whatu Ora is partnering with executive search firms Tribe Recruitment and Alexander James to manage the appointment process for the Category Lead role. By submitting your application, you consent to Te Whatu Ora sharing your details with Tribe Recruitment and Alexander James for the purposes of recruitment and assessment.

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

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